The Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns' impressive international seasons have been reflected in this year's Golden Boot nominations with New Zealand players the majority in both the men's and women's categories.
Kiwi Ferns trio Georgia Hale, Mele Hufanga and Apii Nicholls along with Kiwis forwards James Fisher-Harris and Joey Tapine have all been recognised for their roles in this year's impressive results, which included significant wins over their respective trans-Tasman rivals.
The Kiwi Ferns claimed their first win over the Jillaroos in seven years with a gutsy 12-8 victory in October before the Kiwis sent shockwaves through the international rugby league community with their 30-0 thrashing of the Kangaroos in the Pacific Championships final.
Along with Kiwi Ferns trio, Jillaroos star Tamika Upton has been nominated for the women's award while in the men's category Payne Haas and Harry Smith join Fisher-Harris and Tapine.
Should either Fisher-Harris or Tapine win the award, they will be the third consecutive Kiwi to do so after centre Joey Manu won it last year and Warriors returnee Roger Tuivasa-Sheck claimed it in 2019. The awards were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Kiwi Ferns could also be one step closer to their own three-peat of sorts after star Raecene McGregor became the first New Zealander to win the award last year.
The 2023 winners will be announced in early December.
Golden Boot finalists
Men: James Fisher-Harris (New Zealand), Payne Haas (Australia), Harry Smith (England), Joseph Tapine (New Zealand).
Women: Georgia Hale (New Zealand), Mele Hufanga (New Zealand), Apii Nicholls (New Zealand), Tamika Upton (Australia)
Wheelchair: Jeremy Bourson (France), Lewis King (England).
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