Rugby: NZer named world's top junior

Winger Julian Savea today became the fourth New Zealander in a row to be named the International Rugby Board's junior player of the year.

The award capped off an excellent tournament for New Zealand, which today won the final 62-17 over Australia in Rosario, Argentina.

Savea beat New Zealand under-20 captain Tyler Bleyendaal, Australia centre Robbie Coleman and Argentina first five-eighth Ignacio Rodriguez Muedra for the title.

Aaron Cruden won the award last year, Luke Braid in 2008 and Robbie Fruean in 2007.

Savea, a 19-year-old powerful and athletic wing, scored eight tries in the tournament to equal the record fellow New Zealander Zac Guildford set last year in Japan.

"I feel pretty stoked," Savea said afterwards. "Once again, just credit to the boys as without them I wouldn't be here."

- NZPA