McCaw received his award following the France v New Zealand test match in Marseille

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw has been named the International Rugby Board Player of the Year 2009.

The team award was won by South Africa with Ireland's Declan Kidney the IRB Coach of the Year.

The Springboks enjoyed a triumphant 2009, claiming the Tri-Nations title and winning the summer British & Irish Lions series.

All-Blacks skipper McCaw, 28, said: "It has been a trying year at times, but it is great to be part of a winning team."

Meanwhile, Springboks captain John Smit said: "It's been a huge year for us and to top it off with a recognition like this is massive."

"Hopefully we can keep it going for another two years."

The awards were announced after the Test between Six Nations champions Ireland and Tri Nations champions South Africa at Croke Park on Saturday.

It was the first time in five years that South Africa achieved Tri-Nations success and they reclaimed the award from New Zealand.

Kidney, meanwhile, Declan Kidney steered Ireland to a Six Nations Grand Slam, which was the first by an Irish team in 61 years.

"I don't know what to say really, the team have been superb over the last 12 months," admitted Kidney.

"I feel my role is overstated, I haven't made a tackle all year!"

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version