Sam Simmonds, Marcus Smith and Poppy Cleall scoop player awards

It should come as little-to-no surprise that the Rugby Players’ Association Player Of The Year award has gone to Exeter Chiefs number 8 Sam Simmonds. 

The award passes to Simmonds from last year’s winner, Wasps’ flanker Jack Willis.  

“This award, in particular, means a lot. The way that it is picked and the way you get nominated is from players that you play against every week and throughout the season,” Simmonds said. 

“So for them to recognise and notice that I have been having a strong season is fantastic and I appreciate that. Once the season is over – hopefully after a few more wins – then I can look back both individually and as part of the team and feel good about what we have achieved.” 

Simmonds’ superb recent form saw him snapped up by Warren Gatland into the 2021 British & Irish Lions touring squad. 

Exuberant young Harlequins playmaker Marcus Smith walked away with the Young Player Of The Year award. 

“It’s always nice to be honoured for individual awards, but a lot of the credit has to go to my teammates at Harlequins,” Smith said. 

“They have made me look good this year and without the forwards, I couldn’t have done my job. To be voted for by fellow players who I play against week in week out makes it extra special and motivates me to win more individual honours in the future hopefully.” 

England forward Poppy Cleall was the deserved recipient of the Women’s Player Of The Year award.