All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea has been nominated for the 2019 World Rugby Men's Player of the Year award.
- Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus expecting tough grind in final against England
- Emotional All Blacks show it's okay to cry after semi-final exit
Savea is the only Kiwi up for the award, joined by England youngster Tom Curry, South Africa duo Cheslin Kolbe and Pieter-Steph du Toit, US hooker Joe Taufete'e and Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones.
Savea's ability to play anywhere across the back row has elevated him into the top six players in the world.
The 26-year-old started eight of the 10 tests played by New Zealand last year and made turning over the ball at breakdowns look easy.
Last time only one All Black was nominated for the Player of the Year award was 2009.
Black Ferns halfback Kendra Cocksedge has been nominated for the women's award, battling with England trio Katy Daley-McLean, Emily Scarlett and Sarah Bern, and France's Pauline Bourdon.
Join us for live updates of the Rugby World Cup final between England and South Africa from 10pm Saturday.
Newshub.
