Four players nominated for World Player of the Year

England's Maggie Alphonsi and Danielle Waterman (pictured)are in the mix alongside Black Fern Carla Hohepa and Ausralia's Nicole Beck.

The shortlist represents the voting of media, commentators and match officials at the tournament and is in effect based on performances solely at the World Cup.

Alphonsi will be the favourite after her consistency throughout the tournament though good showings from Hohepa and Waterman could also give their chances a boost.

Last year's winner was Australia's Debby Hodgkinson who took the award after her displays at the Sevens World Cup. Below are the biogs handed out by the IRB.

Maggie Alphonsi (England)

The 26-year-old flanker has been one of the stand-out players of the tournament, showing a wide versatility from her work at the breakdown and turning over ball, to explosive attacking runs. Often described by commentators as 'Maggie the Machine', Alphonsi has been a powerhouse for the hosts, igniting the crowd and team-mates alike.

Nicole Beck (Australia)

The youngest of the nominees, the wing has epitomised the passion and determination of the Australia squad, and her calmness and accuracy with the boot was a significant contribution to the Wallaroos reaching a first semi final. A Rugby World Cup Sevens winner, Beck is a dangerous runner who showed true commitment with an outstanding covering tackle in the semi final against England.

Carla Hohepa (New Zealand)

The 25-year-old is on course to match her position as the leading try scorer at RWC Sevens 2009 with six tries to date including a brace in the semi final win over France. Hohepa combines speed, agility and creativity with a try-scoring instinct, making her a threat from anywhere on the pitch. The Black Ferns wing is also one of the first female IRB Keep Rugby Clean Ambassadors, adding her support to the campaign for a drug-free sport.

Danielle Waterman (England)

After nine months out with a knee ligament injury, Waterman has made a strong recovery to grace the World Cup stage, scoring two scintillating tries against the USA and also showing her defensive qualities with a try-saving tackle in the semi final against Australia. Always a threat going forward, the 25-year-old was one of the stand out players from the pool stages.