The Dragons back row man picked up two Man of the Match Awards as Wales made it three Grand Slams in eight seasons and received more than 25% of the 30,000+ public votes for the top individual award for the season. Lydiate was one of four Welsh players included in a shortlist of 12 for the title.
“I am really surprised to be honest although I am genuinely chuffed to bits. It tops off an amazing competition for me and for Wales. To be part of such a talented Wales team and win the Grand Slam in Cardiff on Saturday was incredible in itself but to then be voted Player of the Championship is absolutely unbelievable,” admitted Lydiate.
“It is a massive honour to win, especially given the quality of the other players up for the award. Thanks to everyone who voted for me, it means a lot.”
Sam Warburton, Alex Cuthbert and Mike Philips were the other Welsh players on the 12 man shortlist. The 2012 RBS Player of the Championship was decided as a result of a public vote, hosted on www.rbs6nations.com.
The shortlist was compiled of winners of the RBS Man of the Match award chosen by the host broadcasters from the first four weekends. Lydiate had been named Man of the Match in Wales’ match against Scotland in the second weekend of the Championship. He also received the honour for his stand-out performance against France on Saturday as Wales sealed their third Grand Slam in eight years.
Lydiate secured more than 25% of the vote, with Ireland’s Jonathan Sexton coming second with 12%. Sexton was closely followed by Italian captain Sergio Parisse in third, with 11.6% of the vote.
RBS Players of the Championship
2011 – Andrea Masi (Italy)
2010 – Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
2009 – Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
2008 – Shane Williams (Wales)
2007 – Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
2006 – Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
2005 – Martyn Williams (Wales)
