World Rugby reveals nominees for women's awards

NEWS: World Rugby revealed nominees for two of women’s rugby’s most coveted individual accolades: the Women’s 15s Player of the Year 2026 and the Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year 2026.

England duo Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones, Canada’s DaLeaka Menin and New Zealand’s Kaipo Olsen-Baker nominated for World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year.

Pauline Barrat (France), Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand), Amelia Whitaker (Australia) and Bella Vogel (USA) shortlisted for Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year, recognising the emerging stars making their mark on the international stage.

Four spectacular tries shortlisted for International Rugby Players’ Association Women’s 15s Try of the Year.

Continues below…

A lot to rectify before their rematch against Ireland.

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Eight outstanding players from six nations have been shortlisted for their exceptional performances and impact throughout the international season, reflecting the depth of talent and growing competitiveness in the women’s game.

The winners of both awards will be revealed this weekend, with trophies presented following the players’ final WXV Global Series matches.

The announcement also marks the opening of the fan vote for the IRPA Women’s 15s Try of the Year 2026, with four memorable tries shortlisted by the International Rugby Players’ Association and supporters around the world invited to select the winner.

Since their inception in 2001, the World Rugby Awards have recognised and celebrated achievements at the highest level of the game, honouring the players and individuals whose exceptional performances, dedication and contributions embody the values of rugby.

World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year 2026

The Women’s 15s Player of the Year remains one of the most prestigious individual honours in the sport. Four outstanding internationals have been shortlisted following exceptional performances throughout the 2026 season.

Zoe Harrison (England)

A commanding presence at flyhalf, Harrison has been instrumental in directing England’s attack with her game management, tactical kicking and ability to deliver in decisive moments. Her match-winning interception try against New Zealand in September underlined her composure and influence in the biggest contests.

Megan Jones (England)

A key figure in the Red Roses’ backline, Jones has continued to demonstrate her versatility, attacking threat and defensive qualities throughout 2026. Equally influential with and without the ball, the experienced centre has also taken on the captaincy of the world champions.

DaLeaka Menin (Canada)

A cornerstone of Canada’s forward pack, Menin has continued to impress with her physicality, powerful scrummaging and tireless work around the field. The experienced tighthead prop has been a key figure in Canada’s front row, providing a strong platform for her team’s performances against the world’s leading nations.

Kaipo Olsen-Baker (New Zealand)

A dynamic presence in the Black Ferns’ back row, Olsen-Baker has showcased her powerful ball-carrying, athleticism and relentless work rate throughout the year. Her ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball has made her an important figure in New Zealand’s forward pack.

In addition to the final shortlist, the selection panel recognised several players whose standout performances throughout 2026 warranted special commendation: Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, New Zealand tight-head prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu and openside flanker Elinor-Plum King.

World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year 2026

The Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award celebrates emerging talents who have made an outstanding impact on the international stage in their debut year and demonstrated their potential to shape the future of the game.

This year’s shortlist features four exciting players representing Australia, France, New Zealand and the USA, highlighting the next generation of talent across the global women’s game.

Pauline Barrat (France)

An exciting emerging talent in French rugby, Barrat has made a strong impression with her attacking instincts and confident performances on the international stage.

Named Women’s Six Nations Breakthrough Player of the Tournament in 2026, she has quickly established herself as one of France’s most promising young players.

Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand)

An impressive addition to the Black Ferns’ forward pack, King has caught the eye with her physicality, defensive work and presence at the breakdown. The openside flanker has shown maturity beyond her experience, establishing herself as an exciting prospect in New Zealand’s back row.

Amelia Whitaker (Australia)

An exciting attacking talent, Whitaker has made her mark on the international stage with her pace, finishing ability and willingness to take on defenders. The Wallaroos winger has continued to grow in confidence throughout the WXV Global Series, including crossing for a try against Scotland.

Bella Vogel (USA)

One of the emerging talents for the Women’s Eagles, Vogel has earned recognition for her performances on the international stage in 2026. Her inclusion on the shortlist reflects her growing influence and potential as part of the next generation of American rugby talent.

International Rugby Players’ Association Women’s 15s Try of the Year 2026

Four unforgettable tries have been shortlisted for the IRPA Women’s 15s Try of the Year 2026, with rugby fans around the world invited to decide the winner.

Selected by the International Rugby Players’ Association, the nominations celebrate the attacking flair, creativity and skill on display across the international women’s game this season.

• Léa Champon – France, v Scotland, Women’s Six Nations, May 9
• Pauline Bourdon Sansus – France, v England, Women’s Six Nations, May 17
• Abi Burton – England, v Australia, WXV Global Series, September 12
• Olivia Apps– Canada, v England, WXV Global Series, September 19

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: “The quality of this year’s nominees is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and ambition driving women’s rugby forward.

“From established international stars to exciting emerging players, each has made an outstanding contribution to the game in 2026.

“As women’s rugby continues to grow and reach new audiences around the world, it is important that we recognise the players whose performances inspire fans and the next generation.

“I congratulate all our nominees on their achievements and look forward to celebrating the very best of our sport through this year’s awards.”

Fans will have the opportunity to vote on social media to determine the winner of Try of the Year, with voting opening on Monday, 26 October and closing on Wednesday, October 28.

The celebrations will conclude on Monday, November 2, with the unveiling of the World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year, recognising the outstanding performers who have defined the international season.