Tri-Nations dominate IRB list

Dublin - Southern hemisphere stars have dominated the contenders for the International Rugby Board (IRB) player of the year award, with France No 8 Imanol Harinordoquy the lone European on a six-man shortlist.

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw, the current holder and bidding for an unprecedented third IRB award, was joined by team-mate Mils Muliaina just days after the duo overtook All Black great Sean Fitzpatrick's national record of 92 caps in the win over Ireland.

The Australia duo of full-back Kurtley Beale and flanker David Pocock were also in contention as was South Africa lock and Springbok cap record-holder Victor Matfield.

All five have performed strongly in the Tri-Nations and in subsequent Tests while Harinordoquy was included by an independent panel chaired by former Australia captain John Eales after helping France to a first Six Nations 'grand slam' since 2004.

"The IRB Player of the Year Award is the greatest individual honour presented annually in our game," said Bernard Lapasset, chairman of the global governing body, in a statement issued Thursday.

"The six players nominated have all enjoyed an exceptional year of international Rugby and have been judged on their performances in the RBS Six Nations, Tri Nations, June and November Tests," the Frenchman added.

"Richie McCaw has already made history as the first player to win the award twice, while Imanol Harinordoquy, Victor Matfield and Mils Muliaina have consistently performed to highest standards over the year.

"It is also pleasing to see some of the brightest stars of the world game in Kurtley Beale and David Pocock also nominated for their achievements during what has been a fascinating year, setting the scene for what promises to be a memorable Rugby World Cup 2011."

This year's winner will be announced on December 1, along with the coach of the year and team of the year winners.

Previous winners of the IRB Player of the Year Award:

2009 - Richie McCaw (NZL)

2008 - Shane Williams (WAL)

2007 - Bryan Habana (RSA)

2006 - Richie McCaw (NZL)

2005 - Dan Carter (NZL)

2004 - Schalk Burger (RSA)

2003 - Jonny Wilkinson (ENG)

2002 - Fabien Galthie (FRA)

2001 - Keith Wood (IRL)