Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was honored as World Rugby’s coach of the year at the annual awards ceremony, while New Zealand loose forward Ardie Savea claimed the player of the year prize. Despite winning the World Cup, South Africa had only one player named to the team of the year. However, the champions were obviously not too upset by this fact.
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Awards
Farrell, 48, led Ireland to a Six Nations Grand Slam earlier in 2022 and the top ranking in world rugby between July 2022 and October 2023. However, Ireland were knocked out of the World Cup by New Zealand in the quarterfinals, with the All Blacks going on to lose to South Africa in the final.
Ireland had been undefeated all year until that heartbreaking 28-24 loss to New Zealand, capping a 12-match winning streak. That run dated back to Ireland’s 2-1 series victory over the All Blacks in July 2022 and included a pool stage win over eventual champions South Africa at the World Cup.
All Blacks number eight Savea edged out Ireland centre Bundee Aki, France scrumhalf Antoine Dupont and South Africa lock Eben Etzebeth for the men’s player of the year honor after a remarkably steady 2022.
Savea started 11 of New Zealand’s 12 tests this year, only sitting out the match against Uruguay at the World Cup. He led the tournament in offloads and was a pillar on defense. In the final, Savea made a game-high 21 carries and even served as captain after Sam Cane was red carded in the 29th minute. Despite being down a man, New Zealand narrowly lost to the Springboks 12-11.
New Zealand winger Mark Telea was named breakthrough player of the year. Despite winning the World Cup, South Africa only had lock Etzebeth named to the team of the year. Ireland (5), France (5) and New Zealand (4) each had strong representation on the all-star side.
Scotland’s Duhan van der Merwe won try of the year for his long-range solo score against England in the Six Nations. On the sevens circuit, Kiwi Tyla Nathan-Wong and Argentine Rodrigo Isgo were the women’s and men’s players of the year, respectively.
Words
Upon receiving the coach of the year award, Farrell said: «Coaching is demanding yet rewarding, with many highs and lows. In accepting this honor, I want to credit the players and staff who tirelessly pursue success for Irish rugby. I’m incredibly proud to work with such a gifted, committed group. This award recognizes all those involved in Irish rugby and our phenomenal supporters near and far. I’m honored to accept it on their behalf».
Savea remarked: «Very blessed and grateful. For an individual to stand out is based on the team’s foundation. Massive shout out to Foz (All Blacks coach Ian Foster), skip (captain Sam Cane) and my brothers, and the journey we’ve shared».
