Black Ferns revealed as nominees for World Rugby Awards

• New Zealand's Kaipo Olsen-Baker, England duo Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones and Canada's DaLeaka Menin nominated for World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year.
• Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand), Pauline Barrat (France), 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.

World Rugby has today revealed the nominees for two of the most coveted individual accolades in women's rugby, the Women's 15s Player of the Year 2026 and the Women's 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year 2026.

Eight outstanding players from six nations have been shortlisted in recognition of their exceptional performances and impact throughout the international season, reflecting the depth of talent and growing competitiveness of 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 fly-half, 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 a leadership role for England, captaining the side during the WXV Global Series.

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 season. Her ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball has made her an important figure in New Zealand's forward pack.

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 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 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 2026, including crossing for a try against Scotland in the WXV Global Series.

Bella Vogel (USA)

One of the emerging talents in the USA women's game, 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.

In addition to the final shortlists, the selection panel recognised several players whose standout performances throughout 2026 warranted special commendation - Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney MacDonald and Black Fern's tighthead prop Veisina Mahutariki-Fakalelu.

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

Four unforgettable tries have been shortlisted for the 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.

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

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 online to determine the winner, with voting opening on Monday 26 October and closing on Wednesday 28 October 2026.

The celebrations will conclude on Monday 2 November, 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.

The Black Ferns play their final game at home for the 2026 season this weekend in Christchurch. Tickets are available here.