Updated 16.28
WHEN IT COMES to standout performers in the Aviva Premiership this season, the kids are alright.
The five-man shortlist for Player of the Season was announced on Tuesday and, remarkably, all of the nominees are aged 23 or younger.
Centre Jonathan Joseph — who turns 24 later this month — is the oldest youngster to make the shortlist where he is joined by Bath team-mate George Ford and Saracens’ Billy Vunipola.
All three are already familiar faces in the England setup while the other two nominees, Wasps duo Elliot Daly and Fiji-born Nathan Hughes, are both expected to make the step up to senior international level before long.
Aviva Premiership Rugby Player of the Season shortlist
- Elliot Daly – Wasps
- George Ford – Bath Rugby
- Nathan Hughes – Wasps
- Jonathan Joseph – Bath Rugby
- Billy Vunipola – Saracens