Contepomi short-listed for player of the year

Leinster's Felipe Contepomi has been short-listed for the International Rugby Board World Player of the Year.

He is joined by his compatriot Juan Hernandez, last year's winner Richie McCaw, Springbok Bryan Habana, France centre Yannick Jauzion in an elite group.

International Rugby Board chairman Dr. Syd Millar said: "The IRB Player of the Year Award is the ultimate accolade for a player to receive in his career. It takes on added significance in a Rugby World Cup year and takes into account player performances in all major internationals including matches in the RBS Six Nations championship, Tri-Nations series, the June International series and of course the tournament.

"The list of past winners of the award is very impressive and comprises players of the calibre of Schalk Burger, Dan Carter, Jonny Wilkinson, Richie McCaw, Fabien Galthie and Keith Wood."

The IRB Awards ceremony, held in association with Emirates Airline, is being held this year at the Pavilion d'Armenonville in Paris' Allie de Longchamp on Sunday, October 21.