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.
England duo Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones, Canada’s DaLeaka Menin and New Zealand’s Kaipo Olsen-Baker nominated for World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year
Pauline Barrat (France), Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand), 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 the captaincy of the world champions.
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 tight-head 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 year. Her ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball has made her an important figure in New Zealand’s forward pack.
In addition to the final shortlist, the selection panel recognised several players whose standout performances throughout 2026 warranted special commendation in Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, New Zealand tight-head prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu and openside flanker Elinor-Plum King.
International Rugby Players’ Association Women’s 15s Try of the Year 2026
Four unforgettable tries have been shortlisted for the IRPA 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.
Léa Champon – France, v Scotland, Women’s Six Nations, 9 May
Pauline Bourdon Sansus – France, v England, Women’s Six Nations, 17 May
Abi Burton – England, v Australia, WXV Global Series, 12 September
Olivia Apps– Canada, v England, WXV Global Series, 19 September
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.
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.
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