Ireland's finest shortlisted

The Irish Rugby Union's Players Association (IRUPA) have announced the shortlist for the Player of the Year award for 2013.

In the running to land the much sought after award are Leinster and Ireland prop Cian Healy, Ulster No.8 Nick Williams and Munster and Ireland wing Simon Zebo.

These are the only awards voted for by the players themselves, with votes collected from the entire professional player group across the country.

Leinster and Ireland flyhalf Jonathan Sexton highlighted the importance of the awards.

"Winning an IRUPA award, which is voted for by the players is a huge mark of respect for any rugby player," he said.

"The Hibernia College Player of the Year award is particularly well regarded by the players, as it rewards consistency and skill at the highest level."

The award is one of seven which will be announced at the annual IRUPA Awards ceremony on Wednesday, May 8 in Dublin.

Among the other awards is the Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year, contested this year by several talented young players including Connacht's Robbie Henshaw, Leinster's Ian Madigan, also nominated in 2012, and Luke Marshall from Ulster.

The Try of the Year includes Craig Gilroy's five-pointer for Ireland against Argentina in the November internationals, Iain Henderson's effort against Saracens in Ulster's European Cup quarterfinal and Simon Zebo gets a second nomination for his try against Wales in the Six Nations.

2013 is the second year of the Hibernia College Medal for Excellence which will be awarded to the individual who demonstrates exceptional commitment to the game both on and off field.

2013 IRUPA award nominations:

Hibernia College IRUPA Player's Player of the Year:

Cian Healy (Leinster)

Nick Williams (Ulster)

Simon Zebo (Munster)

Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year:

Robbie Henshaw (Connacht)

Ian Madigan (Leinster)

Luke Marshall (Ulster)

Try of the Year:

Craig Gilroy, Ireland v Argentina, November international

Iain Henderson, Saracens v Ulster, European Cup

Simon Zebo, Ireland v Wales, Six Nations

Hibernia College Medal for Excellence:

Isaac Boss (Leinster)

Chris Henry (Ulster)

Marcus Horan (Munster)