18 May, 15:44
It's down to the wire now for the five contenders who have been shortlisted for the ultimate individual accolade in northern hemisphere rugby, ERC European Player of the Year 2013.
2011-2012 Heineken Cup Final Ambassador
"It really is a great privilege for me to be a Heineken Cup Ambassador because the tournament means so much to me and gives me the chance to share my passion for the tournament and the game with everyone involved with the Heineken Cup," said Ibanez.
"It was fantastic playing Heineken Cup games and if I have to remember one single game that is very easy - it comes to my mind so naturally.
"Wasps winning the Heineken Cup against Leicester at Twickenham in 2007 was the match and it was also a case of proving that rising ambition can make all the difference. On the day we had the desire and ambition that sometimes earns you the reward."
RAPHAEL IBANEZ
DoB: 17.02.73, Dax. Position: Hooker
French Record: 1996 / 2007
Debut: v Wales, Cardiff, 16 March, 1996
Caps: 98 (41 as captain and eight tries)
Honours: 5 Nations winner 1998 (Grand Slam), 6 Nations winner 2002 (Grand Slam), 2006 and 2007. World Cup finalist 1999 and world's most capped hooker
Clubs: Dax, Perpignan, Castres Olympique, Saracens and London Wasps
European Record: Heineken Cup: 39 appearances, 7 tries; Amlin Challenge Cup: 17 appearances, 3 tries; European Shield: 3 appearances
