Evans jockeys for covering role

Otago's Nick Evans clears the ball in the tackle of the Lions' Matt Stevens tonight. Picture / Fotopress

The idea of the All Blacks being without Daniel Carter to face the Lions is as scary as being a Lions fan ahead of the tests. But Nick Evans proved once again that he wouldn't look out of place in the black jersey.

Although the selectors couldn't find room for Evans in their original squad of 26, it is logical they would call for a reinforcement should Carter, heaven forbid, break his leg or fall under the All Blacks' bus.

We're told that both Aaron Mauger and Leon MacDonald are ready to slip into Carter's boots if he is injured during a game but the smart money would be on finding a specialist first five-eighths to slot into the backline to start a test.

With Carlos Spencer Northampton bound and Andrew Mehrtens about to enjoy his retirement in London with Harlequins, Evans appears to be next cab off the rank. Make that the next Ferrari, considering the gas he has in his tank.

After a nervy start, when he fumbled in the first minute and then missed a penalty touch-finder soon after, Evans showed glimpses of his ability.

It might not have been one of his most accomplished shows, punctuated by some mistakes and missed tackles but, as Otago sensed they might be able to topple the Lions, Evans led from the front. His trademark booming kick found its range after a couple of wobbly ones. He landed four of five kicks at goal and hit the post with his only failure.

It seemed the Lions knew Evans' value to the blue and golds and tried twice to take his head off with dangerously high tackles. The All Black selectors clearly have their eyes on the former North Harbour pivot after he started for the Probables in the trial and he will join the Junior All Blacks this week for games against Queensland and Australia A.

He's also played test rugby, having made his debut as a replacement against England at Carisbrook last year, with his run-on debut at fullback a week later.

Although he appeared against both Argentina and the Pacific Islands, Evans was a notable absentee from the end-of-year tour of the UK and France. But he has leapfrogged the competition after his impressive form in the Super 12 for the Highlanders.

He has the temperament and game to handle top-level rugby and, in many ways, is a modern version of Mehrtens - although a better defender.

He is one of a herd of good, young first-fives who will keep Carter as honest as the Jockey underpants he advertises. Like an old pair of favourite undies, Evans appears to be a comfortable fit.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY