The Rugby Players’ Association has revealed its list of stars nominated for The RPA Awards 2019.
The ceremony held at Twickenham Stadium on 8 May will recognise players across six categories, with the RPA players’ player of the year the most prestigious.
Gloucester fly-half Danny Cipriani, Exeter Chiefs wing Santiago Cordero and teammate Henry Slade, Sale Sharks scrum-half Faf de Klerk and Northampton Saints intercept machine Cobus Reinach are the five players listed for the award.
Leicester Tigers full-back Telusa Veainu won the gong at last year’s showpiece event, which will also recognise England Men’s and Women’s teams with player of the year awards in addition to the national sides’ performances on the World Rugby Sevens circuit.
The Premiership’s brightest talents will also be highlighted with emerging England duo Joe Cokanasiga and Tom Curry up for the award, as well as Alex Dombrandt, Rory Hutchinson and Ollie Thorley.
RPA Players’ Player of the Year
Nominees: Danny Cipriani, Santiago Cordero, Faf de Klerk, Cobus Reinach, Henry Slade
Young Player of the Year
Nominees: Joe Cokanasiga, Tom Curry, Alex Dombrandt, Rory Hutchinson, Ollie Thorley
England Men’s Player of the Year
Nominees: Tom Curry, Jonny May and Mark Wilson
The England Women’s Player of the Year
Nominees: Sarah Bern, Katy Daley-Mclean and Sarah McKenna
England Men’s 7s Player of the Year
Nominees: Tom Bowen, Will Muir and Ethan Waddleton
England Women’s 7s Player of the Year
Nominees: Holly Aitchison, Abbie Brown and Alex Matthews
RPA Special Merit Award
2019 Winner: Mathew Tait
RPA Blyth Spirit Award
2019 Winner: Rob Horne
