Photo / Richard Spranger

Counties Energy Heat and Black Ferns star Mererangi Paul has been confirmed as finalist in two different categories at the World Rugby Awards 2023.

Pau has been shortlisted for both Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year as well as being a finalist for Try of the Year.

The utility back made her international debut this year against Australia in the World Rugby Pacific Four Series and has enjoyed a meteoric rise, scoring a pair of tries in her first two tests.

Her try against Canada in July is also listed as one of four finalists in the Try of the Year category.

Winners across four categories will be celebrated during a special awards presentation in front of fans at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart after the final whistle of the hotly anticipated England v New Zealand match on Saturday.