BRAXTON WINS BREAKTHROUGH PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Black Fern Braxton Sorensen-McGee has been named World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year.

The World Rugby awards were announced following the Women’s Rugby World Cup final match between England and Canada, which saw England reign as champions after a 13-33 victory.

The 18-year-old teenage sensation made her Black Ferns debut v Australia in May during the Pacific Four Series and has since scored 14 tries in eight Tests, including 11 at the Women’s Rugby World Cup comprising of back-to-back hat tricks v Japan and Ireland.

She edged past fellow teammate Jorja Miller along with Fiji’s Josifini Neihamu for the award.

New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said:

“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, congratulations to all the World Rugby nominees and winners. We are incredibly proud to have Black Ferns nominated and it acknowledges the immense impact they have had on the women’s game on and off the field. To see Braxton acknowledged this evening, is a testament to the attributes and skills she brings to the team.”