Sam Whitelock took home a rare double at the NZ Rugby Awards on Thursday night.
The All Blacks lock was given the nod for both Super Rugby and overall men's player of the year.
The 29-year-old said it was "amazing" to receive the recognition but was eager to deflect praise to his teammates, singling out one in particular for special mention.
"My wife's been a massive influence on this year," Whitelock told media following the ceremony.
"She's been outstanding in the way she's helped me and also looked after our young child."
The hard-working forward has been at the heart of the engine room effort for both his Crusaders and the All Blacks through 2017.
"I've never gone out to try any individual things but I'm just so happy that I've been recognised, and so much credit has to go to the players, the fans, and the management."
Alongside leading the Crusaders to their eighth Super Rugby title, Whitelock also earned his first Test as All Blacks captain in the final match of the team's European tour against Wales.
Sarah Goss took home the prize for best overall womens player, while her Black Ferns side was named team of the year.
Newshub.
