Welsh full-back Leigh Halfpenny has been voted RBS Six Nations player of the championship after playing a pivotal role in Wales defending their title.
The Cardiff Blues player received 40% of the public vote from the 80,000 people who polled. Italy’s Alessandro Zanni was second with 11% and Scotland’s Stuart finished third with 8% of the vote out of the 15-man shortlist – which was based on technical statistics and fans views on social media.
Halfpenny finished the tournament as the top points scorer with 74 points for Wales as he helped them record a second successive Six Nations crown.
The 24-year-old is the second Welshman to win the accolade in successive seasons, following on from Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate. On winning the accolade he had this to say:
“I can’t thank the people who voted for me enough.
“It’s the icing on the cake of an exceptional year for Wales, and it is a privilege to be part of such an exceptional group of people.
“For my name to be added to the list of players who have won this award in the past is incredible and extremely humbling.”
Interim Wales coach Rob Howley believes Halfpenny is fully deserving of his award. He said:
“Leigh is fearless, courageous and is one of the best full backs in World rugby.
“He constantly strives for perfection in his preparation and performance and sets high standards.
“He is a model professional in every facet of the game and I am delighted for him.
“His contribution to the side has been huge and he fully deserves to be named player of the championship.”
Barring injury it is widely thought that the 2009 British and Irish Lion will be on the plane to this year’s tour to Australia.
By Luke Augustus