Saturday 22 November 2014 20:56, UK
New Zealand lock Brodie Retallick has been named world rugby player of the year.
Retallick, who made his debut in 2012, played in his 36th Test - and 33rd win – in Saturday’s 34-16 victory over Wales.
His workrate and powerful runs came to the fore this year, and his second-row partnership with Sam Whitelock has made them a pair to be feared.
Retallick was shortlisted by World Rugby, the new name for the International Rugby Board, for the award with fellow All Black Julian Savea, South Africa full-back Willie le Roux and No 8 Duane Vermuelen, and Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton.
He is the fourth New Zealander to receive the award, following Richie McCaw (2006, 2009, 2010), Dan Carter (2005, 2012) and Kieran Read (2013).
The top-ranked All Blacks were also named team of the year for an eighth time, and Steve Hansen coach of the year for a third time in succession.
This year, New Zealand equalled the record of 17 straight wins by a major team, won another Rugby Championship, retained the Bledisloe Cup, whitewashed England in June, and swept their November Tests against England, Scotland, Wales and the United States.
