Brodie Retallick, 23, said he still had plenty of improving to do. Photo / Getty Images
Brodie Retallick has struck a blow on behalf of the world's tight forwards - his recognition as IRB player of the year is the first time a prop or lock has won the award.
Wing Julian Savea, who yesterday scored another memorable try to take his tally to 30 in
33 tests, was also on the shortlist, but the judges found in favour of Chiefs lock Retallick, one of the toughest and hardest workers in the All Blacks.
"It's thoroughly deserved," coach Steve Hansen, who was honoured as coach of the year, said. "He's a young man whose career has taken off from day one. We've always marvelled at the size of his engine, he can just keep going all day.
"He's ably supported by Sammy [Whitelock]. There's a sense of strength about him mentally. He's physically tough. He should be very proud. It's a combination and I think both of them do a great job for the team."
Retallick, 23, who received the award after the All Blacks' 34-16 victory over Wales at the Millennium Stadium in what was his 36th test, said he still had plenty of improving to do.
