After a wonderful rugby season that saw South Africa beating New Zealand in the Rugby Championship, two Springboks have been rewarded for their versatility by being nominated for the International Rugby Board World Player of the Year.
Fullback Willie Le Roux and number 8 Duane Vermeulen were unsurprisingly included among three other players for world rugby’s prestigious award.
The other candidates are Irish flyhalf Jonathan Sexton, New Zealand lock Brodie Retalick and wing Julian Savea, who is also the favourite to walk away with the accolade.
The winner will be revealed at his team’s final match of the season at the ongoing Autumn Internationals.
Fullback Willie Le Roux and number 8 Duane Vermeulen were unsurprisingly included among three other players for world rugby’s prestigious award.
The other candidates are Irish flyhalf Jonathan Sexton, New Zealand lock Brodie Retalick and wing Julian Savea, who is also the favourite to walk away with the accolade.
The winner will be revealed at his team’s final match of the season at the ongoing Autumn Internationals.
“The IRB World Rugby Player of the Year is one of the most prestigious accolades in rugby and previous winners have all made a significant contribution to the international game over the past decade, inspiring new generations of players and fans.
“All these nominees have enjoyed stellar years and the focus on who will claim this accolade will add an extra dimension to the remaining November Tests,” said IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset.
In support of the initial nomination process, fans now have the chance to have their say on the shortlist via social media. The results of the public vote will be considered by the panel when finalising the winner.
Previous winners include Kieran Red, Dan Carter, Thierry Dusautoir, Shane Williams, Bryan Habana, Schalk Burger, Jonny Wilkinson, and Richie McCaw.
“All these nominees have enjoyed stellar years and the focus on who will claim this accolade will add an extra dimension to the remaining November Tests,” said IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset.
In support of the initial nomination process, fans now have the chance to have their say on the shortlist via social media. The results of the public vote will be considered by the panel when finalising the winner.
Previous winners include Kieran Red, Dan Carter, Thierry Dusautoir, Shane Williams, Bryan Habana, Schalk Burger, Jonny Wilkinson, and Richie McCaw.
By: Farai Diza
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