Japan's Mafi wins Rebels players' gong

Jul 19, 2017 - 5:15 AM Japan international Amanaki Mafi has been named Melbourne Rebels Players' Player after an outstanding debut Super Rugby season.

The fifth consecutive back-rower to win the award, Mafi topped the voting from his teammates ahead of Colby Fainga'a, Marika Koroibete, Reece Hodge and Tom English.

According to SANZAAR statistics, the 27-year-old was second in the entire Super Rugby competition for runs, behind the Chiefs' Damien McKenzie, and ranked first in the forwards for run metres and offloads, and second for tackle busts.

Mafi also led the Rebels for minutes played, line breaks and pilfers; one of just three Rebels to appear in all 15 games and the only to poll votes in every round this season.

Melbourne are hopeful of re-signing him for 2018.

Outside back English was named recipient of the Spirit of Weary Dunlop award, chosen by Rebels coaching staff, for the player who best exemplifies the club's values.

Melbourne-born prop Fereti Sa'aga was crowned rookie of the year, while league convert Koroibete won try of the year and finished the season as the club's leading try scorer with six in his debut year.

Source: AAP