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England's Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje and Billy Vunipola up for World Rugby award

Owen Farrell leads the celebrations after England's whitewash of Australia
Image: Maro Itoje, Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola (L-R, front) are all up for the World Rugby award

England's Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje and Billy Vunipola have been shortlisted for the World Rugby player of the year award.

The Saracens trio account for half of the six nominations, with Ireland's Jamie Heaslip and New Zealand's Dane Coles and Beauden Barrett completing the list.

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Recognition for England's fly-half Farrell, lock Itoje and No 8 Vunipola comes after Eddie Jones' side won the Six Nations Grand Slam and whitewashed Australia away from home.

All three also contributed to an historic season for Saracens, who finished up as champions of England and Europe.

PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA - JUNE 25: Jamie Heaslip of Ireland during the 3rd Castle Lager Incoming Series Test match between South Africa and Ireland at
Image: Ireland's Jamie Heaslip is another on the award shortlist

Heaslip was part of the Ireland side that pulled off a first win over the All Blacks at the weekend, ending the world champions' record 18-match winning run.

That run of victories was achieved with the help of hooker Coles and fly-half Barrett.

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World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: "There is class in abundance on this shortlist. There is also a great mix of experienced, proven campaigners and exciting young talent."

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