Kieran Read named IRB Player of the Year

New Zealand number eight Kieran Read has been named as the IRB Player of the Year for 2013.

The 28-year-old, who was the favourite to win the accolade, saw off competition from Leigh Halfpenny, Eben Etzebeth, Sergio Parisse and Ben Smith.

The All Blacks have won the Team of the Year award after triumphing in all 13 of their matches over the course of the season.

They completed the feat last month with a dramatic 24-22 victory over Ireland in Dublin.

Meanwhile, Kiwis coach Steve Hansen has been announced as the Coach of the Year.