A SUBLIME SIX Nations campaign for Jacob Stockdale has been duly rewarded, as Friday saw the 21-year-old named as the 2018 NatWest Player of the Championship.
The Ulster star scored a remarkable seven tries as Ireland claimed a historic Grand Slam for just the third time in the nation’s history.
The player had just four caps heading into this year’s campaign and was playing in the Ulster Bank League with Ballynahinch RFC as recently as 2016.
He secured 32% of the public vote, with team-mate Conor Murray finishing second with 18.2% and Johnny Sexton third with 18%.
“It’s been a truly memorable few weeks, making my first NatWest 6 Nations appearance, winning the Championship then going on to complete the Grand Slam against England,” Stockdale said.
“Breaking the try-scoring record was the cherry on top. It’s an absolute honour to win the NatWest Player of the Championship, especially when you look at the amazing calibre of those shortlisted.”
Keith Earls garnering 14.5% of the votes in fourth spot, followed by Italy’s rising star Matteo Minozzi who earned 13.2% with France captain Guilhem Cuirado completing the line-up with 4.1%.
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
