This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

Michael Cheika Wins Coach Of The Year Surrounded By Kiwis

Cheika Named Coach Of The Year In Sea Of All Black
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Michael Cheika the head coach of Australia following his team's defeat in the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final match between New Zealand and Australia at Twickenham Stadium on October 31, 2015 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Michael Cheika the head coach of Australia following his team's defeat in the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final match between New Zealand and Australia at Twickenham Stadium on October 31, 2015 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has been honoured for dramatically turning around the fortunes of the national rugby side, in front of an audience of players still battered and bruised from the Rugby World Cup final loss to New Zealand.

Cheika has instilled the once-troubled team with a new structure, a new work ethic and a new team philosophy. The result has seen him get Australia to the World Cup Final and he said couldn't be prouder.

World Rugby recognises the best in the game each year at the World Rugby Awards.

This year's gala event in London on Sunday night has had the added attraction of rounding out the 2015 World Cup tournament.

New Zealand dominated the evening, scooping the pool for the majority of the awards -- with that one notable exception.

All Black captain Richie McCaw entered with the Webb-Ellis Trophy to kick off proceedings.

In a gesture by World Rugby that was widely applauded, Sonny Bill Williams was presented with a replacement medal, after he gave his to a fan in the aftermath of the game.

The two Women's Player of the Year Awards both went to Kiwis with Kendra Cocksedge and Portia Woodman taking the honours for XVs and Sevens respectively.

The electric performance of All Black Julian Savea was recognised with the Try of the Year award.

Unsurprisingly the All Blacks were named Team of the Year for the sixth consecutive year.

And finally the key award which everyone waits for and which perhaps was ultimately of no surprise -- Man of the match from the World Cup final, Dan Carter, was named Player Of The Year as he prepares to retire from international rugby.

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.