Eddie Jones named coach of the year in World Rugby Awards

England coach Eddie Jones has been named the Coach of the Year in the World Rugby Awards.

The former Wallabies coach led England to a total of nine victories this year that includes a Six Nations triumph and unbeaten summer and autumn internationals.

The only defeat for England under Jones came against Ireland during the Six Nations tournament that denied them a Grand Slam and overall he has managed the red rose team to 22 wins out of the 23 games since he took over from Stuart Lancaster.

The 57-year-old managed to beat British and Irish Lions' coach Warren Gatland and New Zealand boss Steve Hansen to the prestigious award.

Player of the Year Award for the men's and women's category went to the New Zealand's Beauden Barrett and Portia Woodman respectively.

It was a successful evening for the All Blacks with their Women's 15s side winning the team of the year, 20-year-old wing Rieko Ioane collecting the breakthrough player of the year prize, and Michaela Blyde taking home the women's sevens player award.

World Cup winning former New Zealand captain Richie McCaw was given a special merit award, along with England's 2014 World Cup winner Rachael Burford

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont congratulated the winners and nominees after another successful year that saw the game rise to a different level.

"It has been an outstanding 2017 for rugby on and off the field and tonight we have recognised and celebrated those who have made it so special," said Beaumont speaking at the awards ceremony in Monte Carlo.

"From the players, teams and coaches who have inspired millions of fans to the unsung volunteers and projects who at community level are the foundation of our great game, we salute them all.

"Congratulations to all our nominees and award winners who have not just displayed excellence, but who embody rugby's character-building values."