Harrison and Jones shortlisted as World Rugby names women's award nominees

Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones have been shortlisted for World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year, alongside Canada's DaLeaka Menin and New Zealand's Kaipo Olsen-Baker. The nominations were announced on Monday as World Rugby also named the contenders for its women's breakthrough player and try of the year awards for 2026.

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According to BBC Sport, England fly-half Harrison, 28, scored 88 points from the tee for her country this year. Captain Jones, 30, is nominated for the second consecutive year after Canada's Sophie de Goede took the award in 2025. Both England players were part of the World Cup-winning team and helped the Red Roses secure an eighth successive Women's Six Nations title in May.

The nominations come after a change in England's results. BBC Sport reported that their 41-match unbeaten sequence ended with the first of two successive defeats by Canada this month. England face the United States on Friday at 21:15 GMT. The player and breakthrough award winners will be revealed this weekend, with presentations taking place after the nominees' final WXV Global Series appearances, World Rugby said.

The breakthrough shortlist comprises France's Pauline Barrat, New Zealand's Elinor-Plum King, Australia's Amelia Whitaker and the United States' Bella Vogel. World Rugby's announcement recognises players making their impact in their debut international year. Barrat was also named the Women's Six Nations Breakthrough Player of the Tournament in 2026, while King plays in the Black Ferns' back row.

Rugby.com.au reported that Whitaker, 20, scored three tries in her first five internationals after making her debut against England in Salford at the start of the WXV Global Series. Her season also included two tries in the Super Rugby Women's grand final as the NSW Waratahs claimed their seventh title. She subsequently scored twice against Scotland at Accor Stadium.

Supporters can also choose the women's try of the year, with voting closing on 28 October. France's Lea Champon and Pauline Bourdon Sansus are nominated for Six Nations scores against Scotland and England respectively. England's Abi Burton is shortlisted for her try against Australia, while Canada's Olivia Apps completes the list for a score against England in the WXV Global Series.