Black Ferns co-captain aims to create history as World Rugby reveal award nominees

Black Ferns co-captain Ruahei Demant is looking to become the first player to win World Rugby’s prestigious Women’s 15s Player of the Year twice after being nominated for the second year in a row.

World Rugby has unveiled the nominees for three major awards ahead of the final round of matches in the inaugural WXV1 competition in New Zealand.

Demant has been named at fly-half ahead of New Zealand’s clash with England. There are two nominees from the Red Roses in captain Marlie Packer and wing Abby Dow.

France’s try-scoring phenom Gabrielle Vernier is the fourth nominee after claiming Player of the Championship honours after the Women’s Six Nations earlier this year.

“The past year has seen some momentous steps forward for the women’s game with more full-time contracts, record-breaking crowds, the announcement of the first-ever dedicated international release window and, of course, the inaugural WXV competition which has seen the very best women’s teams competing across three levels and in three regions around the globe,” World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said.

“A huge congratulations and thank you to all those nominated today who are not only inspiring fans and players on the field with their tenacious performances and infectious spirit but outside of the game with the incredible work they carry out in their communities.”  

New Zealand duo Mererangi Paul and Katelyn Vahaakolo are among the contenders for the Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award.

Both players debuted in the black jersey against the Wallaroos during the Pacific Four Series. Paul was especially electric that day with the wing crossing for a stunning brace in Redcliffe, Australia.

France’s Carla Arbez and Scotland’s Francesca McGhie have also been put up for the accolade after impressive debut seasons at Test level.

The World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year in partnership will be revealed on Saturday along with the three individual award winners. 

The nominees:

Women’s 15s Player of the Year

Ruahei Demant (New Zealand)

Abby Dow (England)

Marlie Packer (England)

Gabrielle Vernier (France)

Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year

Carla Arbez (France)

Francesca McGhie (Scotland)

Mererangi Paul (New Zealand)

Katelyn Vahaakolo (New Zealand)

Try of the Year

Sofia Stefan (Italy, v Ireland on 15 April)

Charlotte Escudero (France, v Wales on 23 April)

Zoe Aldcroft (England, v France on 29 April)

Mererangi Paul (New Zealand, v Canada on 8 July)