England flanker Henry Pollock is one of four nominees for World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year award.
No England player has won the award since Maro Itoje in 2016, meaning Pollock stands to break a nine-year duck for the Red Rose should he come out on top.
The Northampton starlet was named to the British and Irish Lions’ squad for their summer tour of Australia after he bagged a brace of tries on his international debut against Wales.
He did not appear in a test for the Lions as they beat the Wallabies 2-1 in the series, but has managed to pick up a further three England caps this year.
Pollock faces stiff competition to be named Breakout Player of the Year, though. He is nominated alongside New Zealand's Dutch-born lock Fabian Holland, South Africa wing Ethan Hooker and Australia back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii.
France wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey has been nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year.
The 22-year-old was named player of the tournament for the 2025 Six Nations after scoring a record eight tries.
Reigning world player of the year Pieter-Steph du Toit - who also won the award in 2019 - is again shortlisted, in addition to South Africa team-mates Malcolm Marx and Ox Nche.
Winners of both awards will be announced on Saturday.
Pollock has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his brief rugby career. The Oxfordshire native made his senior debut for Northampton Saints in 2023, and made his debut in the England first team less than two years later at the 2025 Six Nations.
Speaking ahead of the Autumn Internationals, England boss Steve Borthwick said of Pollock: "Everybody's excited when Henry Pollock gets on to the pitch because of what he brings, there's no doubt about that.
"He's probably the most excited person! The way he is and the energy he brings - he's a ball of energy.
"I love having that character in the squad. We've got a great blend of personalities developing within the team."
Additional reporting: PA
