Former Fiji 7s Olympic goal medalists and Flying Fijians star forwards Leone Nakarawa and Viliame Mata have been nominated for the EPCR European Player of the Year award.

Last season’s winner, Nakarawa, who played a key role in Racing 92’s qualification for the Heineken Champions Cup quarter-finals, is nominated once again.

While Mata who plays for Edinburgh, is included on the back of several outstanding displays this season.

Meanwhile, eight Irish players are among fifteen nominees for the award.