Ireland's Grand Slam-winning skipper Brian O'Driscoll was last night named players' player of the year at the 2009 IRUPA Rugby Awards.
O'Driscoll captained Ireland to a stunning RBS 6 Nations success and scored a crucial try in Leinster’s Heineken Cup semi-final win over Munster on Saturday.
He said: "This award has capped a fantastic season for me so far and also for Irish rugby.
"This trophy has escaped me for seven years so it's great to finally get up on stage to collect it as it is the ultimate award in Irish rugby.
"I take great pleasure in winning it as it comes from the people who I respect most, my fellow players."