Burger follows Jonny Wilkinson as the players' player of the year

Burger was named Investec international players' player of the year and international newcomer of the year.

It is the first time that a player has won both major categories at the event.

France are team of the year, Stephen Jones' score in the World Cup is the international try of the year and Martin Johnson received a merit award.

The 21-year-old Burger starred as the Springboks won the Tri-Nations, but he has been dropped for Saturday's Test against Scotland.

But he said: "Winning both these awards is a great honour, especially as they are voted for by professional players from all over the world.

"It has been a fantastic season, with South Africa winning the Tri-Nations, and now this caps an incredible year for me."

Burger beat off competition from former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio, New Zealand's Joe Rokocoko, Australia's Lote Tuqiri and France flanker Serge Betsen to win the players' player award.

Other nominations in the newcomer section were Ireland centre Gordon D'Arcy, New Zealand forward Jono Gibbes, Wallabies wing Clyde Rathbone and All Blacks back Sam Tuitupou.

England's World Cup-winning skipper Johnson was recognised for his outstanding contribution to international rugby, while 2004 RBS Six Nations champions France were named team of the year.

Fly-half Jones' spectacular score against World Cup quarter-final opponents England last November earned him the international try of the year honour.