Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll's role in leading his country to a Six Nations Grand Slam was again recognised on Friday when he was named as the Player of the 2009 Championship.

The gifted centre, whose tries against England and Wales were particularly important in securing Ireland's first Grand Slam in 61 years said: "It has been such an immense week already and to be named the RBS Player of the Championship is a fantastic end to what has been a phenomenal Championship."

O'Driscoll's award came as a result of an online poll where fans voted from a list compiled by former internationals Jason Leonard (England), Keith Wood (Ireland), David Sole (Scotland) Ieuan Evans (Wales), Philippe St Andre (France) and Alessandro Moscardi (Italy).

O'Driscoll received nearly 30 per cent of the more than 24,000 votes cast, just seeing off Italy back-row Sergio Parisse, the runner-up, and Ireland lock Paul O'Connell, who came in third.

Also nominated were Delon Armitage and Lee Byrne, the full-backs of England and Wales respectively, and Ireland back-row Jamie Heaslip.

"To be voted Player of the Championship by the fans makes it extra special," added O'Driscoll, along with O'Connell one of the leading contenders to captain the British and Irish Lions in South Africa this year.

"But I'm really proud of our team effort right the way through the tournament and I would not be in this position if it was not for my team-mates.

"The support of the fans throughout our campaign has been unwavering and a huge part of the team's success on the pitch - I'm just glad we could reward them too by bringing home the Grand Slam."

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