Top award for Hayes

Hayes: Player of the month

Exeter Chiefs captain Tom Hayes has won November's Aviva Premiership Rugby Player of the Month

Hayes, 30, was chosen as the winner by a panel that consisted of rugby media representatives from print, TV, radio and photographers.

Heather Smith, head of sponsorship for Premiership Rugby sponsors Aviva said: "Tommy is a worthy winner of the Player of the Month award.

"He is a player who leads by example, a true role model and has harnessed the clubs fearless attitude so far this season."

No one could predict how well the Chiefs have started their first-ever Premiership campaign.

In fact, they were daubed as one of the teams who would struggle to even gain a point.

Shocked

Having battled their way to a respectable seventh spot in the league, Hayes and his team, have so far silenced their critics.

On receiving his award, Hayes said: "Obviously I was a little bit shocked when I got told the news, but it's a huge honour for me and I am delighted to have received the award.

"What we have achieved this season is great so far, but it is not just about me. All the guys have been superb and it has been a massive team effort."

Irish-born Hayes, brother to Ireland's stalwart John, seems to have the leadership requirements for this league as well as the respect of the team.

"It is always very pleasing as a club whenever you pick up awards of this nature," said Chiefs coach Rob Baxter.

"Tom has lead from the front during our premiership season and this award is due recognition for what he and his team mates have achieved so far."