Congratulations to our five nominees for the Sanlam Young Player of the Year 2018!    Josh Adams (Worcester Warriors): “This is a big honour for me. I am extremely delighted and definitely didn’t expect this recognition from my peers. It’s been an amazing season and I have been working really hard to improve my game. A big thanks to everyone who voted for me, it means a huge amount.”   Jake Polledri (Gloucester Rugby): “It’s an unbelievable feeling to be nominated for the Young Player of the Year. To be given an opportunity by Gloucester has been amazing and I’m very humbled, excited and thankful for the support shown by my peers.”   Sam Simmonds (Exeter Chiefs): “I am very thankful for the incredible support and recognition to be shortlisted for this award. Playing in the Premiership is a great privilege and I’ve enjoyed every moment this season and doing my best to perform week in, week out for Exeter.”   Marcus Smith (Harlequins): “It’s an absolute honour to be nominated for this award, this season has been amazing for me and to be nominated by fellow players makes it even more special.”   Jack Willis (Wasps): “I’m so proud to be nominated for this award. I have been fortunate to have been given a lot of great opportunities with Wasps this season, it’s been a big learning experience and something I am really looking forward to building on.”   The Sanlam Young Player of the Year Award recognises the outstanding young player of the domestic season, as voted by the players. Nominees must be 23 years or younger at the start of the season. The Young Player of the Year trophy is named after Harlequins and England scrum-half Nick Duncombe, who died tragically in 2003 from a rare form of blood poisoning, aged just 21. To book your place at the RPA Players’ Awards 2018 in association with England Rugby on Wednesday 9th May at Battersea Evolution, London, please call 020 3053 6670 or email Martin Olima on molima@therpa.co.uk.