O'Driscoll leads shortlist for rugby's player of the year award

Ireland centre Brian O'Driscoll is the hot favourite for the International Rugby Board's Player of the Year award after being included on a seven-man shortlist today.

O'Driscoll, who marked his 100th test appearance with a last-minute try to earn Ireland a 20-20 draw with Australia yesterday (NZ time) has had a memorable year.

He led Ireland to their long-awaited Six Nations grand slam - winning the competition's player of the year award - helped Leinster win the Heineken Cup and starred for the British and Irish Lions in South Africa.

Irish number eight Jamie Heaslip, another Lion, is also included on the list that was extended to seven from the usual five because of the closeness of the voting by a panel of former internationals.

All Blacks flanker Richie McCaw, winner in 2006, is also on the list along with England flanker Tom Croft, Australia flyhalf Matt Giteau and South African backs Francois Steyn and Fourie du Preez, who helped the Springboks to their series win over the Lions and Tri-Nations title.

The winner will be announced, together with the IRB coach of the year and team of the year, during the final weekend of November tests.

- Reuters