In front of a home crowd at Twickenham, moments after England were crowned winners of the three match test series against New Zealand, Michaela Staniford was awarded the prestigious title of IRB Player of The Year 2012.

After impressive performances in both XVs and 7s this season, Michaela thoroughly deserved the title.

Earlier in the year, Staniford was named best player of the IRB Women's Sevens Challenge Cup.

On receiving the Award, Staniford said: "I am delighted to be receiving this prestigious award, which is as much a reflection of the achievements of the England Sevens and Fifteens squads in 2012 as it is of my own personal journey. To receive this award in front of our home fans at Twickenham after a Series victory against New Zealand, is really, really special. It caps a wonderful year."

To read more, visit http://www.rfu.com/news/2012/december/newsarticles/011212_staniford_irb_player