Leinster players dominate the shortlist with retired Johnny Sexton included

Four Leinster players made the shortlist for the Guinness Rugby Writers Player of the Year award in 2023. The candidates for the award have been announced.

In addition to Bundee Aki, who is nominated for Player of the Year, Hugo Keenan, Andrew Porter, and recently retired Johnny Sexton are also competing for the award.

Naturally, Leinster’s journey to the Champions Cup final and Ireland’s Grand Slam triumph resulted in the star players being shortlisted, while Aki was a standout performer for Ireland during their World Cup campaign.

The Ireland men’s XV team, Munster men’s team, Ireland U20’s, Ireland women’s 7s, and Ireland men’s 7s are the nominees for the Dave Guiney Team of the Year award, while Sam Monaghan, Nichola Fryday, Neve Jones, Deirbhile Nic a Bháird, and Aoife Dalton are up for the women’s award.

“This season has really demonstrated the strength of Irish Rugby and with strong, competitive successes and performances across all levels and teams,” said Rory Sheridan, Head of Partnerships at Diageo, in response to the announcement of the nominees.

“I want to congratulate everyone who has been nominated today by the Rugby Writers of Ireland and applaud the accomplishments of the teams’ entire squads who have received recognition for their success.

“It is wonderful to witness the variety and depth of our nominees from each of our provinces, as well as to acknowledge their dedication and role in the sport all season long. We would like to congratulate them all and wish them the very best of luck on what will be a very enjoyable evening.”

Award nominees

Men’s Player of the Year

Bundee Aki

Caelan Doris

Hugo Keenan

Johnny Sexton

Andrew Porter

Women’s Player of the Year

Sam Monaghan

Nichola Fryday

Neve Jones

Deirbhile Nic a Bháird

Aoife Dalton

Dave Guiney Team of the Year

Ireland senior men’s XV

Munster men’s XV

Ireland U20s

Ireland women’s 7s

Ireland men’s 7s

Men’s 7’s Player of the Year

Mark Roche

Harry McNulty

Jack Kelly

Women’s 7’s Player of the Year

Emily Lane

Lucy Mulhall

Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe