Wales 24-23 Japan: Coach Steve Tandy was unable to see the penalty kick scored by Jarrod Evans in the match

Evans was the unforgettable hero at the death when Cardiff beat Leinster at Arms Park in 2022, and also beat a Galway wind to ensure success in Connacht in 2017.

The 29-year-old from Pontypridd now has a testing moment to add to his highlights.

“I’ve tried it with my team, but it’s the first time I’ve done it for my country,” Evans said.

“I was so relieved it was over, but that’s why I put in all those hours and hard work.”

The substitute fly-half was only called onto the pitch in the 79th minute as Wales were pinned down in their own half and needed something special.

“The longer it goes on, the more you think you might not be able to continue, but you have to be ready to impact the game,” said Evans, who came on for Dan Edwards.

“I’m just the lucky guy to get that moment at the end, but I was more proud of the way we worked our way down the field.

“We kept the ball and didn’t cough it up, which we probably did for large parts of the game to give Japan the lead.”

An out-of-bounds penalty meant Evans kicked to the 22 and the combination almost ensured his right foot was not needed.

“The strikers were unbelievable in their striking and beat us all the way through – we were unlucky not to try.

“We thought about a quick pass, but then I took the decision out of the players’ hands.”

Wales is now preparing to face New Zealand next Saturday, and he knows that his performance level needs to rise significantly.

“We’re going to be strict with ourselves,” Tandy said. “I was never short of effort when I watched this group and you can build on that.

“Obviously getting those narrow wins is fun, but we have to continue to grow.”