South African flanker Schalk Burger got quick consolation for being dropped from the Springboks side for Saturday’s test with Scotland by picking up two major international awards on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old collected the Investec international players’ player of the year award and international newcomer honours at a ceremony in London.
Burger, who was an integral member of the South Africa side that lifted the Tri-Nations series but has had a poor tour of the northern hemisphere, is the first player to win both major categories in the International Rugby Players’ Association event.
The awards are voted for by Test players from England, Australia, France, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa and Wales.
”Winning both these awards is a great honour, especially as they are voted for by professional players from all over the world,” said Burger.
”It has been a fantastic season, with South Africa winning the Tri-Nations, and now this caps an incredible year for me.”
Burger beat former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio, All Blacks try machine Joe Rokocoko, Australia wing Lote Tuqiri and France flanker Serge Betsen to win the players’ player award.
Other nominations in the newcomer section were Ireland centre Gordon D’Arcy, New Zealand forward Jono Gibbes, Wallabies South African-born wing Clyde Rathbone and All Blacks back Sam Tuitupou.
England’s World Cup-winning skipper Martin Johnson received a special merit award for his outstanding contribution to international rugby, while 2004 Six Nations Grand Slam winners France were named team of the year.
Wales also garnered an award as fly-half Stephen Jones’ stunning try — which went from one end of the pitch to the other — in the gallant World Cup quarterfinal defeat by England last November was named international try of the year. – Sapa-AFP