Ireland’s Caelan Doris Nominated for World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year

Ireland’s Caelan Doris has been put forward for World Rugby’s men’s 15s Player of the Year award. Doris was instrumental in Ireland’s successful Six Nations campaign and led Andy Farrell’s team to an impressive victory against South Africa in Durban. The 26-year-old back row, who was also appointed Ireland captain for the upcoming autumn internationals, will contend for the accolade alongside South African players Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, and Pieter-Steph du Toit. Historically, three Irish players have previously secured this award: Keith Wood in 2001, Johnny Sexton in 2018, and Josh van der Flier in 2022. Further nominations include Doris’ Leinster colleague Jamie Osborne, who is a candidate for the men’s breakthrough player of the year. Erin King, notable for scoring two tries in Ireland’s WXV1 triumph over world champions New Zealand, has been nominated for women’s breakthrough player of the year. In other categories, Ireland’s Terry Kennedy is set to compete with France’s Antoine Dupont and Aaron Grandidier Nkanang for the sevens player of the year title. Additionally, James Lowe’s initial try against England during the Six Nations has been shortlisted for try of the year. The World Rugby Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Monaco on 24 November.