The short version
- Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones join two international rivals as nominees for World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year.
- The award recognizes standout performances from the 2026 season, highlighting players who contributed to England’s recent Six Nations success.
- The winner will be revealed after the WXV Global Series concludes, coinciding with England’s upcoming match against the United States.
World Rugby has announced the shortlist for its Women's 15s Player of the Year award, featuring a strong contingent from England. Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones, both key figures in the national team’s recent successes, are among the four nominees selected to represent the highest level of individual achievement in the sport during the 2026 calendar year. The announcement underscores the continued prominence of English rugby on the global stage, even as the team navigates a period of transition following their dominant run.
Harrison, a fly-half aged 28, is recognized for her significant scoring contributions throughout the season. She accumulated 88 points from the tee for England in 2026, demonstrating consistency and precision in one of the most demanding positions on the pitch. Her nomination reflects not only her statistical output but also her role in orchestrating attacks during critical matches. The award aims to highlight exceptional performances, and Harrison’s ability to deliver under pressure has been a defining feature of England’s recent campaigns.
Megan Jones, the 30-year-old captain of the Red Roses, is nominated for the second consecutive year. She previously fell short in 2025, when Canada’s Sophie de Goede claimed the honor. Jones’ leadership has been instrumental in maintaining England’s high standards, particularly during their pursuit of the Women's Six Nations title. Her nomination acknowledges both her on-field performance and her influence as a team leader, qualities that have helped sustain the squad’s momentum through a challenging season.
The other two nominees represent strong international competition. Canada’s DaLeaka Menin and New Zealand’s Kaipo Olsen-Baker round out the list, bringing diverse styles of play and regional prestige to the contest. Their inclusion highlights the global nature of women’s rugby and the depth of talent emerging from different hemispheres. Each nominee has demonstrated excellence in their respective roles, making the final decision a difficult one for the selectors.
England’s recent form provides an interesting backdrop to these nominations. The team secured their eighth consecutive Women's Six Nations title in May, capping off a remarkable 41-match unbeaten streak. This period of dominance established them as clear favorites in many competitions and solidified their reputation as a powerhouse in women’s rugby. However, the momentum shifted later in the year when Canada inflicted back-to-back defeats on England, ending the winning run and raising questions about the team’s resilience.
Despite these recent losses, there is no indication of panic within the English camp. The coaching staff and players appear focused on learning from the setbacks rather than dwelling on them. The nominations for Harrison and Jones suggest that individual excellence has remained intact even as team results have fluctuated. This distinction between personal achievement and collective performance is a common theme in sports, where individual brilliance can shine through despite broader challenges.
The winner of the Player of the Year award will be announced following this weekend’s final matches of the WXV Global Series. England is scheduled to face the United States on Friday at 21:15 GMT, providing a timely opportunity for the team to regroup and demonstrate their competitive spirit. The timing of the announcement adds an extra layer of significance to the upcoming fixture, as fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for signs of recovery.
In addition to the Player of the Year award, England’s Abi Burton has been shortlisted for the Women's 15s Try of the Year. Her try against Australia in September during the WXV Global Series was selected for its technical quality and impact on the game. This recognition further emphasizes the depth of talent within the English squad, with multiple players contributing memorable moments throughout the season. The combination of individual accolades and team achievements paints a complex picture of England’s current standing in world rugby.
As the season draws to a close, the focus shifts from past performances to future prospects. The WXV Global Series serves as a crucial testing ground for teams looking to refine their strategies ahead of upcoming tournaments. For England, the challenge lies in translating individual brilliance into consistent team success. The nominations for Harrison and Jones serve as a reminder of the high standards expected from the national team, even as they work to rebuild confidence after recent setbacks.
The announcement of the nominees has sparked discussion among fans and experts about the criteria used to select the winner. While statistical achievements are important, intangible qualities such as leadership, versatility, and impact on key moments also play a significant role. The final decision will likely reflect a balance between these factors, recognizing not just what players have done but how they have influenced the game. As the community awaits the outcome, one thing is clear: the level of competition in women’s rugby continues to rise, driven by exceptional talent and dedication.
Sources behind this briefing
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- BBC Sport↗Harrison and Jones among world player of the year nominees
