Rugby: O'Driscoll wins try of year
Ireland’s Brian O’Driscoll, who along with England’s Martin Johnson was nominated for the international player of the year award, won the Investec try of the year for his spectacular score in the first Lions Test against Australia.
England wing Jason Robinson was named international newcomer of the year by the International Rugby Players Association.
The Sale star, named in England’s team for Saturday’s clash with Australia at Twickenham, was honoured at the IRPA’s inaugural awards dinner at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.
Recently-appointed Wallabies captain George Gregan was voted international player of the year.
‘‘To be voted the best player for 2001 by my opponents when there are so many talented international players is a tremendous honour,’’ said Gregan.
Team of the year were Australia after they defeated the Lions 2-1 and also retained the Tri-Nations Cup.
Former Wallabies captain John Eales received a special award for his ‘‘outstanding contribution’’ to the game.
