Keith Wood and Brian O'Driscoll are among the shortlist of five from which the Player of the Year will be honoured at the inaugural International Rugby Players' Association (IRPA) Investec International Rugby Players' Awards on Tuesday, November 6th in London.

Players from all the leading international teams in both Northern and Southern hemispheres have voted for these awards. The other players nominated for the main award, the IRPA Rugby Player of the Year, are Philippe Bernat-Salles (France), George Gregan (Australia) and Martin Johnson (England).

The shortlist for the IRPA Newcomer of the Year is: Mauro Bergamasco (Italy), Butch James (South Africa), Leon McDonald (New Zealand), Jason Robinson (England) and George Smith (Australia).