Black Ferns nominated

Coach Wayne Smith and five of his World Cupwinning Black Ferns are among early nominees for the 2022 World Rugby awards. The 22nd edition of the awards will be held in Monaco on November 21 (NZT) with the inconsistent All Blacks noticeably absent on the list of finalists. Smith, who helped the All Blacks to two World Cups in an assistant coach capacity, is on the coach of the year list for his heroics with the Black Ferns. Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant and try machine Portia Woodman are on the final list for the women’s 15s player of the year award, along with Alex Matthews (England), Laure Sansus (France) and Sophie de Goede (Canada). Black Ferns stars Ruby Tui and Maiakawanakaulani Roos are amongst four finalists for the women’s 15s breakthrough player of the year. Sylvia Brunt’s touchdown for the Black Ferns in their win over Wales gets her name on the list for the women’s try of the year.