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Australian back Matt Giteau is one of seven nominations for world rugby’s player of the year. Giteau, who plays both five eighth and inside centre, would be considered something of an outsider to take out the award given he wasn’t at his best during the 2009 Tri Nations where Australia only won one game.
New Zealand flanker Richie McCaw could become the first man to twice win the award after being shortlisted.
South Africa’s dominance of the Tri-Nations and their series victory over the British and Irish Lions is recognised by the inclusion of versatile back Francois Steyn and scrum Fourie du Preez, who picked up his national player of the year award earlier this month.
Ireland are represented by captain Brian O’Driscoll who scored the converted try that levelled the Test against the Wallabies on Sunday, and back row forward Jamie Heaslip.
England flanker Tom Croft is also in the running for the individual award, which, along with the IRB coach and team of the year awards, will be announced at the end of this month.
The nominees were selected by a panel comprised of former internationals Will Greenwood, Gavin Hastings, Raphael Ibanez, Francois Pienaar, Agustin Pichot, Scott Quinnell, Tana Umaga and Paul Wallace, which was chaired by Australian legend John Eales.
Previous winners include former Ireland captain Keith Wood, who won the inaugural award in 2001, Jonny Wilkinson (2003) and Dan Carter (2005). Wales wing Shane Williams is the current holder.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.