Williams backs O'Driscoll for award
Friday, 20 November 2009 13:14Wales winger Shane Williams believes Brian O'Driscoll should succeed him as International Rugby Board player of the year.
O'Driscoll heads a seven-strong nominations list as reward for an outstanding season that saw him captain Ireland to only their second Grand Slam.
The enduringly-brilliant 30-year-old also helped Leinster win their first Heineken Cup title and was a central figure on the Lions tour to South Africa.
And to underline his big game mentality, he emerged as Ireland's saviour once again when he scored the match-saving try in Saturday's 20-20 draw with Australia.
Competition for the award is provided by Ireland number eight Jamie Heaslip, England flanker Tom Croft, New Zealand openside Richie McCaw, Australia fly-half Matt Giteau and South Africa duo Francois Steyn and Fourie du Preez.
But Williams believes his Lions team-mate O'Driscoll is the standout nominee.
'I've seen the short-list. There are some great names on it. I'm sure with everything he has achieved this year, it may go to Brian,' he said.
'It would be nice. He's a good friend of mine, and he certainly deserves it.
'With winning the Grand Slam and the Heineken Cup and having a great Lions tour, and scoring on the weekend against Australia, he's back to his best, really.
'He has worked hard to get there and he would deserve the accolade.'
