UPDATE | The latest on Harlequins pursuit of Pieter-Steph du Toit

Winning the award, the 27-year-old became only the 3rd South African to win the award after Schalk Burger (2004) and Habana (2007).

Rugby transfer guru Neil Fissler reports that in a last-ditch attempt, Quins boss Paul Gustard even travelled to South Africa to persuade the Springbok World Cup winner to move to the club.

The flanker was a colossus for the Springboks during the Rugby World Cup, and he dominated the breakdown during the final win over England -- helping South Africa secure seven turnovers and proving a menace for the English throughout the match.

He also made 11 tackles and set up fellow player of the year nominee Cheslin Kolbe for the decisive final try in the 32-12 win.