Carter Named World Rugby Player Of The Year

Following his 2005 and 2012 successes, he becomes only the third man to win the award three times alongside countryman and New Zealand captain Richie McCaw.

“This was his time to shine”, New Zealand Herald’s Patrick McKendry wrote.

“I always said the 2007 team that went to the World Cup was one of the most talented teams I’ve been in, but the results show we didn’t achieve our potential”, he said.

“We are very fortunate to have players like that, and the opportunity will come for someone else now to try to be better than him [McCaw], and be better than Dan”, Hansen said.

New Zealand Rugby Fans in London celebrate winning the Rugby World Cup.

“We worked hard for four years for this moment, so to be able to finally enjoy it, with a few of your best mates, just means so much”.

The British press hailed Carter’s performance on the field yesterday in which he scored 19 points for the All Blacks.

Any hint of sentimentality was shut down during the week, but All Blacks selector Grant Fox said they’ve said their farewells in the sheds after the final.

“They (McCaw and Hansen) are New Zealand heroes and rightfully so they’ll be honoured if that’s what they want”, he told the Herald.

Amid the praise, there was a hint of regret that the Twickenham triumph was the worldwide swansong of six senior players – McCaw, Carter, Ma’a Nonu, Keven Mealamu, Conrad Smith and Tony Woodcock. “We try to do things no other team has done before … it’s a special feeling to be part of such a great team”.

“The All Blacks have shown strength and determination by successfully defending the world champion title”.

From being assistant coach when the All Blacks won in 2011, Hansen has enhanced his reputation since taking over as head coach four years ago.

But Hansen said the time is fast approaching for someone else to take over the prestigious coaching role.

“I wouldn’t say “no” but I’m certainly not saying “yes” either”.

“Thinking back 12 months from where I am now, I definitely didn’t picture myself sitting here with a World Cup medal and having this award here next to me so I’m just really thankful for all the support I’ve had along the way”.