Ireland’s McCloskey and Scotland’s Steyn nominated for Six Nations award
Ireland centre Stuart McCloskey and Scotland winger Kyle Steyn have been shortlisted for the 2026 Six Nations Player of the Championship award.
Italy centre Tommaso Menoncello and France wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who claimed the accolade last year, complete the four-man nomination list.
The winner of the prestigious prize will be determined by a public vote that closes on Thursday, 26 March.
McCloskey shines after injury setbacks
Following an injury-impacted autumn campaign, McCloskey was instrumental in helping his country secure their fourth Triple Crown in five years.
The 33-year-old orchestrated the Irish attack brilliantly, registering a tournament-high six try assists alongside eight crucial turnovers won.
The robust Ulster midfielder also topped his national side’s statistical charts for carries, offloads, defenders beaten and post-contact metres.
His stellar domestic form for a club currently sitting third in the United Rugby Championship clearly translated to the international stage.
Steyn stars in impressive Scottish campaign
Steyn was an ever-present figure for the Scottish squad, starting all five matches as the team secured a commendable third-place finish.
Two of the 32-year-old’s three tournament tries came during a thrilling 50-40 victory over eventual championship winners France at Murrayfield.
The prolific wing becomes the first Glasgow Warriors player to be nominated for the individual accolade since 2017.
Team of the Championship representation
Both nominees have unsurprisingly been named in the official Six Nations Team of the Championship.
The Irish contingent is heavily represented up front, with Tadhg Beirne, Caelan Doris and Jack Conan joining their influential back-line star in the select XV.
Meanwhile, the Scottish flyer lines up alongside instrumental team-mates Finn Russell and Rory Darge in the elite squad.
