Players of the Rugby World Cup: Jerome Kaino (All Blacks)

There are few players who hit with the brutality of Jerome Kaino and do it for 80 minutes every week. Kaino was once seen as inconsistent. Not now. And his nomination for IRB Player of the Year is just reward for a fantastic season.

The entire All Blacks' pack has been operating well, with the likes of Owen Franks and Keven Mealamu outstanding throughout the tournament, but it has been Kaino who has been the glue. His try-saving tackle on Digby Ioane in the semifinal victory was something special and the highlight of an excellent defensive effort from the entire team. Australia couldn't cross and the All Blacks have conceded only seven tries in six games throughout the tournament.

Players of the Rugby World Cup:
Sean O'Brien (Ireland)
Sam Warburton (wales)
Israel Dagg (New Zealand)
Piri Weepu (New Zealand)
Thierry Dusautoir (France)

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