Wilkinson scoops top player award

Jonny Wilkinson has been named player of the year for the second year in succession by the International Rugby Players Association.

The goal-kicking fly-half, who scored all England’s points in their 24-7 victory over France in the World Cup semi-finals on Sunday, was the overwhelming choice of the players.

He tallied 262 points in the vote, with second-placed Carlos Spencer of New Zealand placing second with 117 points, collecting his award at a Sydney ceremony.

England face Australia in Saturday’s World Cup final at the Telstra Stadium in Sydney, but the award for team of the year went to the All Blacks.

With voting having been completed prior to recent games, the All Blacks’ defeat by Australia in the World Cup semis was not taken into account.

The All Blacks totalled 316 points, finishing in front of England who scored 295 points.