Wallabies loose forward David Pocock has been named the Australian rugby player of the year.
Wallabies loose forward David Pocock. Photo: Photosport
Pocock has crowned his stellar return to international rugby by claiming the John Eales Medal.
The champion back-rower collected his second medal despite only playing eight of the 13 Tests during the voting period, which began on last year's spring tour of Japan and Europe.
Pocock dominated the medal count, amassing 262 votes - 123 more of runner-up Lukhan Tui - to underline his immense value to the Wallabies after his 2017 sabbatical.
"It's very special," the 30-year-old said.
"I've loved being back in the Wallabies jersey this year. It's an outstanding group. We haven't got the results that we're after but we're working on it."
The workhorse forward also reinforced his standing in the eyes of Wallabies supporters by taking out the fan's choice award as Wallabies player of the year.
"Individual awards in teams sports are always a bit awkward. Your teammates are the guys you want to play well for. It's a huge honour but it feels a bit strange," Pocock said.
Having also snared the John Eales Medal in 2010, Pocock joins fellow Wallabies greats George Smith, Nathan Sharp and current captain Michael Hooper as a dual winner of Australian rugby's highest individual honour.
Only superstar code hopper Israel Folau, with three gongs, has won more.
A host of other stars were recognised at Friday night's awards at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney, including Queensland Reds prop Taniela Tupou, who was named Super Rugby player of the year.
JOHN EALES MEDAL WINNERS
2002: George Smith
2003: Phil Waugh
2004: David Lyons
2005: Jeremy Paul
2006: Chris Latham
2007: Nathan Sharpe
2008: George Smith
2009: Matt Giteau
2010: David Pocock
2011: Kurtley Beale
2012: Nathan Sharpe
2013: Michael Hooper
2014: Israel Folau
2015: Israel Folau
2016: Michael Hooper
2017: Israel Folau
2018: David Pocock
AAP
