Northern Ireland

Ireland manager Andy Farrell named 'Coach of the Year' at World Rugby Awards

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was named 'World Rugby Coach of the Year'.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was named 'World Rugby Coach of the Year'.
By Allan Preston

Ireland rugby coach Andy Farrell has been voted 'Coach of the Year' at the World Rugby Awards, following a remarkable year for his team.

Although Ireland faced the familiar heartache of a quarter-final defeat at the World Cup, the team's recent achievements still show a team at the height of its powers.

With 17 undefeated games in a row, Andy Farrell's men long held on to the number one spot in the world rankings, won Ireland's fourth ever grand slam and even defeated New Zealand in the summer series.

Farrell (48), whose son Owen captains the England side, won out in the competition from South Africa's Jacques Nienaber, New Zealand's Ian Foster and Fiji's Simon Raiwalui.

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While not in Paris to accept the award, Farrell praised the wider team for their commitment.

"I would like to pay tribute to the players and wider coaching and support staff who work tirelessly to bring success to Irish rugby," he said.

“I am incredibly proud to work with such a talented and committed group. This award is recognition for all those involved in Irish rugby and our incredible supporters who travel near and far to support us.

"I am honoured to accept this award on their behalf."

Ireland's Bundee Aki was nominated for men's 15s player of the year alongside France's Antoine Dupont and South Africa's Eben Etzegeth, with the honor going to New Zealand's Ardie Savea.

Scotland's wing Duhan van der Merwe won try of the year for his side-stepping solo effort against England during the Six Nations.

No less than five Irish players were also picked for the 2023 dream team, including Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Caelan Doris as well as centres Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose.

The fantasy team was rounded out by five French players, four All Blacks and despite winning the World Cup, just one Springbok in Eben Etzebeth.