Evans was then given command of 123rd Indian Brigade, also part of 5th Indian Division, which was flown from the Arakan to Imphal to reinforce IV Corps. The brigade played an active role in the heavy fighting during the Battle of Imphal. When in July 1944 the 5th Division's commander was rested Evans was appointed acting major-general (his permanent rank having been advanced to lieutenant-colonel in June) and appointed General Officer Commanding Indian 5th Infantry Division. By mid-September the division had fought its way in appalling monsoon conditions, over down the road towards Tiddim to cross the Manipur River when Evans contracted typhoid and was evacuated to India.