WELLINGTON, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- The International Rugby Board (IRB) has recognized the achievements of Pacific Islands players by nominating them Thursday for its annual IRB Awards.

Manu Samoa sevens captain, Uale Mai, has been nominated for the IRB sevens player of the year and will vie with England's Matthew Tait and Steffan Basson of South Africa.

Australia's Anthony Faingaa of Tong descent, and New Zealand's Victor Vito, of Samoan descent were nominated for the IRB Under 19player of the year award.

In the Under 21 category, Samoan Digby Ioane, who made his debut for the Australia Wallabies late last year, is nominated. Heis up against Lionel Beauxis (France) and Keegan Daniel (South Africa).

IRB's statement said the nominations in the three categories are the result of votes cast by the management of all participating teams in the respective Age Grade tournaments or in the IRB Sevens World Series.

This year's IRB Awards will be held on Nov. 26 in Glasgow's historic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Britain. Enditem