New Zealand fly half Beauden Barrett World Player of the Year

Fly half Beauden Barrett led a hat-trick of titles for world champions New Zealand at the World Rugby awards as he collected Player of the Year.

The 25-year-old, who has filled the huge vacuum left by the international retirement of Dan Carter with aplomb, was joined on the podium by Steve Hansen, who won Coach of the Year, and the record-breaking All Blacks as Team of the Year.

Barrett and Hansen, who scooped the coaching award for the fourth time in five seasons, were central figures as New Zealand set a world record of 18 successive test wins before being beaten by Ireland earlier this month.

“Words can’t describe this. I remember sitting at [Dan Carter’s[ table last year,” said Barrett. “I’ve really enjoyed the challenge and responsibility and being given more starts.”

Both Barrett and Hansen also relayed their best wishes to those back home after at least two people were killed following a powerful earthquake on New Zealand’s South Island.

“When something like that happens, it put things into perspective and rugby is just a game. We send them our love and wishes,” said Hansen.