Wigan’s flying Australian fullback Bevan French has won a prestigious individual award in Britain, having been chosen as the Rugby League Writers’ and Broadcasters’ Association player of the year for 2020.

The 24-year-old Australian has enjoyed a memorable first full season in Super League, having scored his 13th try from his new position of fullback as Wigan gained a 29-2 win over Hull on Thursday to help them reach next week’s grand final.

French, who recently signed a new contract with the Warriors for 2021, was the overwhelming winner of the Raymond Fletcher Memorial Trophy, which was won in 2019 by his current Wigan teammate, Jackson Hastings.

French is also shortlisted for the Steve Prescott Man of Steel award, the English game’s biggest accolade, which will be announced on Monday.

RLWBA chairman Trevor Hunt said: “It’s been the darkest of times but Bevan French has typified the spirit of rugby league with some outstanding performances to lift the gloom.

“He sparked Wigan to the league leaders’ shield and grand final, claiming over 70 per cent of the votes.”