Wednesday 12 November 2014 23:42, UK
Ireland fly-half Jonny Sexton has been nominated for the 2014 International Rugby Board world player of the year award.
Sexton, who played a starring role in Ireland’s victory over South Africa last Saturday, is one of five nominees announced by the IRB.
The 29-year-old has been joined on the shortlist by South Africa full-back Willie le Roux, Springboks No 8 Duane Vermeulen, New Zealand’s prolific wing Julian Savea and All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick.
Players were chosen by an eight-man panel, with nominated candidates selected following their Test match performances this year.
Previous winners include England 2003 World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson, ex-Wales wing Shane Williams and current New Zealand captain Richie McCaw, who was the recipient a record three times. McCaw's All Blacks team-mate Kieran Read won the 2013 award.
IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “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 of 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.”
The panel comprised of three Sky Sports experts in Will Greenwood, Scott Quinnell and Paul Wallace, together with Gavin Hastings, Raphael Ibanez, Francois Pienaar, Agustín Pichot and Tana Umaga.
