New Zealand captain Richie McCaw is in contention to win the IRB Player of the Year award for a fourth time after being included in a four-man shortlist for the 2012 prize.

All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter also made the cut on Wednesday with two surprising entries – back-up England No.10 Owen Farrell and another fly-half, the rejuvenated Frederic Michalak of France.

McCaw is the only player to have received the accolade more than once in its 11-year history, having won in 2006, ’09 and ’10. Carter won it in 2005.

France flanker Thierry Dusautoir captured the 2011 award.

The winner, chosen by an independent panel of international greats, will be announced on December 3, along with IRB Coach of the Year and IRB Team of the Year.