Six Nations
Ireland captain O'Connell scoops Six Nations award
ESPN Staff
March 27, 2015
Paul O'Connell became the first Irishman to win Player of the Championship since Tommy Bowe © Getty Images
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Ireland captain Paul O'Connell has been named as this season's Six Nations player of the championship.

The 35-year-old Munster lock, who led Ireland to a gripping Six Nations title triumph last Saturday, secured more than 26 percent of a public vote.

Wales forward Alun-Wyn Jones was second, with Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw pipping Wales fly-half Dan Biggar for third place.

O'Connell becomes the first Irishman to gain the accolade since his current team-mate Tommy Bowe five years ago.

A shortlist of 12 players was decided through a combination of match statistics, analysing the best performing players across a set range of criteria and then followed by a public vote.

O'Connell, who won his 100th cap during the tournament, said: "I am delighted to receive the RBS player of the championship trophy.

"When you see the names that have gone before, you realise what a great honour it is. I am very grateful for all the supporters who voted for me."

A total of 70,448 votes were cast, with O'Connell gaining 18,842 of those.

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