Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020
Former NRL forward Kane Evans has shared a powerful update on his recovery journey after revealing he spent months homeless while battling addiction following the end of his rugby league career. The former Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and New Zealand Warriors prop posted emotional images on Instagram this week showing the parks where he slept just four months ago before reaching 100 days sober. His story has drawn strong support from fans and former teammates across the rugby league world because of the honesty behind his struggles and recovery.
Kane Evans reflects on darkest period of his life
Evans, now 34, played more than 100 NRL games before finishing his career with Hull FC in England in 2023. After retirement, he co-owned Sydney coffee shop Bestic Espresso, but the business shut down last year as his personal life began to unravel.
In a deeply personal Instagram post, Evans revealed how serious the situation became before he sought help.
“What a way to be humbled and feel grateful by waking up early, walking to go visit where I was not so long ago,” Evans wrote.
“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 getting the help I needed.”
The images shared online showed benches and park areas where the former Fiji international had been sleeping. His post quickly gained attention from supporters and former players who praised him for speaking openly about addiction and recovery.
Support pours in from rugby league community
Former Brisbane Broncos captain Alex Glenn was among the notable figures who responded publicly to Evans’ message.
“Damn my brother, that’s strength… to acknowledge 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.”
Evans also thanked the people who helped him during the hardest period of his life.
“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 sober️.”
The rugby league world has seen several former players open up about mental health and addiction issues in recent years, but Evans’ story stood out because of how quickly his circumstances changed after retirement. Fans online also noticed his improved health and fitness in recent photos, with some even suggesting he still looked capable of competing professionally.
For more rugby league coverage and player stories, check out NRL news and updates.
Evans preparing for new chapter in combat sports
Although his NRL career is over, Evans is not stepping away from competition entirely. He has already been confirmed as a fighter in Australia’s new “World Bare Knuckle Fighting” promotion.
“I’m very blessed for the opportunity and I can’t wait to throw some hands,” Evans said.
The former prop built a reputation during his rugby league career as an aggressive enforcer in the middle of the field. Fans who watched him during his peak years with the Roosters and Eels will remember his physical presence and intensity in big moments.
Now, however, the focus surrounding Evans is less about wins and losses and more about his recovery and rebuilding his life after addiction.
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