Ex-Bati star on ‘100 days sober'

Former Fijian Bati prop Kane Evans who also played for top National Rugby League (NRL) clubs Sydney Roosters and Parramatta Eels has opened up about his emotional journey from battling addiction and sleeping in parks to celebrating 100 days sober. Now 34, Evans was released by the Warriors back in 2021 and finished his career two years later after a stint in England with Hull FC.

Following his retirement, he opened a Sydney-based coffee shop, Bestic Espresso, with business partner Frank Karipidis, before it closed down last year.

The establishment’s closure coincided with the ex-Fiji international’s life beginning to spiral as he became homeless and struggled with addiction.

Now Evans has revealed on social media that he is on the road to recovery, sharing a number of pictures from the parks where he was sleeping just a few short months ago.

Speaking on Instagram, Evans, who is now working for scaffolding business Oceania Access, said: “What a way to be humbled and feel grateful by waking up early, walking to go visit where I was not so long ago.

“Four months ago, I slept in these parks and moved in the shadows. Tired of fighting the war within, I was hoping to pass away before get-ting the help I needed.

“I thank God that I got there with help from many. To all those who housed me, looked out for me and prayed for me. “Thank you. I love you. 100 days sober.”

Evans’ candid post has received thousands of likes — and seen responses from the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) and Brisbane

Broncos great Alex Glenn.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, FNRL chairman Rajesh Singh said it was very sad to see what Evans went through.

“FNRL stands by our Bati brother, and we urge him to not to give up but to keep fighting back,” he said.

“In my view, once he recovers, we should bring him to Fiji so he could tell his story, which could help a lot of our people who are in similar situations.

“This is not the end of the world for my Bati brother and if he decides to come back then FNRL door is always open to him.”

Glenn told news.com.au: “Damn my brother, that’s strength… to ac-knowledge the struggles but also to

bounce back and show gratitude. Huge.

“Proud of you. keep going. it’s all worth it. and keep telling your story too.”

It comes after Evans recently shared another positive update, saying: “I can’t articulate how hard and rewarding it was checking myself into rehab in order to find understanding, self-love, healing, growth and purpose.

“Letting go of all the energy that didn’t belong to me set me free. I am humbled and grateful. Thank you God and my loved ones.”

Along with pictures from various parks, Evans has also shared images of his health eating and impressive physique.

His shape was praised online, with some social media users even claiming he “could play in the NRL” now.

While his rugby league career is behind him, Evans is still poised to return to the sporting arena in a very different way.

The ex-NRL man has been confirmed as a competitor in Australia’s new boxing format “World Bare Knuckle Fighting”.

“I’m very blessed for the opportunity and I can’t wait to throw some hands,” Evans said.