Evans named best player by fellow pros

Harlequins stand-off Nick Evans will go into Saturday’s Aviva Premiership final against Leicester as the newly-crowned players’ player of the year.

And England international centre Owen Farrell has also been recognised by his peers, winning the young player award.

New Zealander Evans said he was “surprised and humbled” to land the top Rugby Players’ Association honour at their annual awards evening in London.

The former All Blacks No 10 joined Quins from Auckland Blues in 2008 and he has unquestionably been their most consistent player since then.

His goalkicking and masterful tactical play helped guide Quins into their first Premiership final at Twickenham, having finished top of the table following the 22-game regular league campaign.

Quins and England captain Chris Robshaw was runner-up to Evans, with Northampton centre George Pisi third.

“I was very surprised and humbled to win the award,” Evans said. “It is a great honour to be voted for by your fellow professionals. Just to be nominated was a huge honour in itself.

“I’ve got great respect and admiration for all the guys on the [Quins] team, and they have made my job easy this year.

“We’ve had a fantastic season so far, and hopefully we can finish the job at Twickenham.”