Tom Willis Shines as Saracens Claim Double at Rugby Awards Night

Departing No 8 Tom Willis has been named Gallagher Premiership Player of the Season as Saracens Rugby completed a Rugby Awards double despite missing out on the play-offs. Willis, who will return to Bordeaux Begles this summer, has showcased outstanding form this season, beating more defenders than any other player in the top flight. The 27-year-old, who has not been selected by England this year and will become ineligible after his move to Top 14, received the player of the season honor from his peers in the Premiership. Additionally, clubmate Noah Caluori earned the Breakthrough Player of the Season award after leading the try-scoring charts with 18 tries, including two impressive five-try games against Sale Sharks. Phil Dowson also shone at the awards, receiving the Director of Rugby of the Year accolade for guiding Northampton Saints to a top-of-the-table finish. In the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) category, Olivia Apps, a scrum half for Saracens, was named Player of the Season. Initially joining as injury cover, she became a crucial player for Alex Austerberry’s side. Young forward Haineala Lutui from Loughborough received the Breakthrough Award after making her Red Roses debut during the Women’s Six Nations. Other notable awards included England Player of the Year honors for Joe Heyes of Leicester and Zoe Harrison of Saracens.

Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-06-10

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