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DUBLIN : Richie McCaw could become the first man to be twice named world rugby's player of the year after the New Zealand captain was nominated for the 2009 accolade on Monday.
McCaw, who won the International Rugby Board's award for a first time in 2006, has been included on a seven-man shortlist that includes two players from both South Africa and Ireland.
South Africa's dominance of the Tri-Nations tournament and their series victory over the British and Irish Lions is recognised by the inclusion of versatile back Francois Steyn and scrum Fourie du Preez, who picked up his national player of the year award earlier this month.
McCaw and Australian fly-half Matt Giteau make it four nominees for the southern hemisphere while Ireland are represented by captain Brian O'Driscoll and back row forward Jamie Heaslip.
England flanker Tom Croft is also in the running for the individual award, which, along with the IRB coach and team of the year awards, will be announced at the end of this month.
The nominees were selected by a panel comprised of former internationals Will Greenwood, Gavin Hastings, Raphael Ibanez, Francois Pienaar, Agustin Pichot, Scott Quinnell, Tana Umaga and Paul Wallace, which was chaired by Australian legend John Eales.
Previous winners include former Ireland captain Keith Wood, who won the inaugural award in 2001, Jonny Wilkinson (2003) and Dan Carter (2005). Wales wing Shane Williams is the current holder.
- AFP /ls
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