Smith named England's Player of the Year

London - Wasps' Australian flank George Smith was on Wednesday named as the Players' Player of the Year at the 18th annual Rugby Players' Association (RPA) awards in London.

The 35-year-old has made 17 appearances for Wasps in the English Premiership this season, playing a central role in their run to the playoffs.

Smith, capped 111 times by Australia prior to his international retirement in 2013, joined Wasps from French side Lyon last year.

"It’s a truly humbling feeling to receive this award, especially as it’s voted for by my peers," said Smith.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my season playing in England and representing such a determined and driven club like Wasps has made my job so much easier.

"I have cherished each moment I have taken the pitch, the fans in England are superb and I look forward to finishing our season on a high as we strive towards success in the playoffs.”

Smith had been nominated alongside his Wasps team-mates Nathan Hughes and Charles Piutau, former Newcastle flyhalf Andy Goode, who retired in March, and Thomas Waldrom of Exeter.

England breakthrough star Maro Itoje, the Saracens lock, was elected Young Player of the Year, with his club and international colleague Billy Vunipola voted England Player of the Year.

Former Ireland and British and Irish Lions centre Brian O'Driscoll was inducted into the RPA Hall of Fame.