Better and better

All Black captain Richie McCaw, 29, has become the first to be chosen world player of the year three times in a New Zealand sweep at the International Rugby Board (IRB) awards. New Zealand’s Graham Henry was named coach of the year for a record fourth time, and the All Blacks received team of the year for the fourth time in six years. Oamaru-born McCaw led New Zealand to 13 wins in 14 tests this year, including the Tri-Nations title and a just-completed Grand Slam of the home unions. During the European tour, the flanker and Mils Muliaina became New Zealand’s most capped test players with 94 each, surpassing Sean Fitzpatrick. “It’s been a good year and everyone has made a huge effort, from the coaches right through all the players,” McCaw said. “This award is very special but wouldn’t happen without an exceptional team who are good mates, and that’s something I am equally proud of.”