New Zealand
Ma'a Nonu named New Zealand player of the year
ESPN Staff
December 11, 2015
© Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

Rugby World Cup winner Ma'a Nonu has rounded off a remarkable season by picking up the player of the year gong at the New Zealand rugby awards.

Nonu -- who is set to make his European debut for Toulon against Leinster on Sunday -- beat off competition from Dan Carter, Dane Coles and Ben Smith to land the award.

The centre made six appearances, scoring two tries including one in the final, as the All Blacks secured a second successive World Cup triumph, and third overall.

That came at the end of a season that saw him score five Super Rugby tries and also notch a brace against Australia that helped New Zealand retain the Bledisloe Cup.

Nonu said in a video message: "I've really been humbled and grateful to be part of the All Blacks and representing my country."

It should come as little surprise that the All Blacks picked up the team of the year award following their World Cup win, while Steve Hansen picked up coach of the year honours for the fourth time in a row.

Other winners on the night included Nehe Milner-Skudder, who was named Maori player of the year, and Lima Sopoaga picked up the Super Rugby player of the year award.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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