Two England stars have been nominated for the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year award, alongside a Canadian front-rower and a Black Ferns loose forward.
Fly-half Zoe Harrison and centre Megan Jones represent England at the awards, while front-rower DaLeaka Menin is Canada’s sole nominee alongside New Zealand back-rower Kaipo Olsen-Baker.
DaLeaka Menin’s nomination follows an incredible year for the nation, with just two losses overall, plus two wins over the world champions, England.
World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year 2026
Here is the full list of nominations, with the biographies submitted by World Rugby.
Zoe Harrison (England)
A commanding presence at fly-half, Harrison has been instrumental in directing England’s attack with her game management, tactical kicking and ability to deliver in decisive moments. Her match-winning interception try against New Zealand in September underlined her composure and influence in the biggest contests.
Megan Jones (England)
A key figure in the Red Roses’ backline, Jones has continued to demonstrate her versatility, attacking threat and defensive qualities throughout 2026. Equally influential with and without the ball, the experienced centre has also taken on the captaincy of the world champions.
DaLeaka Menin (Canada)
A cornerstone of Canada’s forward pack, Menin has continued to impress with her physicality, powerful scrummaging and tireless work around the field. The experienced tighthead prop has been a key figure in Canada’s front-row, providing a strong platform for her team’s performances against the world’s leading nations.
Kaipo Olsen-Baker (New Zealand)
A dynamic presence in the Black Ferns’ back-row, Olsen-Baker has showcased her powerful ball-carrying, athleticism and relentless work-rate throughout the year. Her ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball has made her an important figure in New Zealand’s forward pack.
In addition to the final shortlist, the selection panel recognised several players whose standout performances throughout 2026 warranted special commendation in Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, New Zealand tighthead prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu and openside flanker Elinor-Plum King.
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World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year 2026
Representatives from France, New Zealand, Australia and the USA were also nominated for the prestigious prizes.
The Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award celebrates emerging talents who have made an outstanding impact on the international stage in their debut year and demonstrated their potential to shape the future of the game.
The full list is as follows.
Pauline Barrat (France)
An exciting emerging talent in French rugby, Barrat has made a strong impression with her attacking instincts and confident performances on the international stage. Named Women’s Six Nations Breakthrough Player of the Tournament in 2026, she has quickly established herself as one of France’s most promising young players.
Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand)
An impressive addition to the Black Ferns’ forward pack, King has caught the eye with her physicality, defensive work and presence at the breakdown. The openside flanker has shown maturity beyond her experience, establishing herself as an exciting prospect in New Zealand’s back-row.
Amelia Whitaker (Australia)
An exciting attacking talent, Whitaker has made her mark on the international stage with her pace, finishing ability and willingness to take on defenders. The Wallaroos winger has continued to grow in confidence throughout the WXV Global Series, including crossing for a try against Scotland.
Bella Vogel (USA)
One of the emerging talents for the Women’s Eagles, Vogel has earned recognition for her performances on the international stage in 2026. Her inclusion on the shortlist reflects her growing influence and potential as part of the next generation of American rugby talent.
International Rugby Players’ Association Women’s 15s Try of the Year 2026
Also up for recognition is the try of the year, with Léa Champon and Pauline Bourdon Sansus of France both nominated for scores in the Six Nations, and Abi Burton of England and Olivia Apps recommended for tries in the WXV Global Series.
Here’s the full list.
- Léa Champon – France, v Scotland, Women’s Six Nations, 9 May
- Pauline Bourdon Sansus – France, v England, Women’s Six Nations, 17 May
- Abi Burton – England, v Australia, WXV Global Series, 12 September
- Olivia Apps– Canada, v England, WXV Global Series, 19 September
“Each has made an outstanding contribution to the game in 2026”
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: “The quality of this year’s nominees is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and ambition driving women’s rugby forward. From established international stars to exciting emerging players, each has made an outstanding contribution to the game in 2026.
“As women’s rugby continues to grow and reach new audiences around the world, it is important that we recognise the players whose performances inspire fans and the next generation. I congratulate all our nominees on their achievements and look forward to celebrating the very best of our sport through this year’s awards.”