Vodafone Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson and his Kiwi team-mate and captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak have been added to the list of contenders for the Rugby League International Federation’s Golden Boot to be announced in Leeds on November 7.
The Golden Boot recognises players who have produced the most outstanding performances at international level throughout the year.
Johnson and Watene-Zelezniak were among five players added to the men's long list for the Golden Boot following England’s 18-16 win over the Kiwis in the first Test in Hull on Saturday.
England’s John Bateman, Tommy Makinson and Elliott Whitehead have also been included alongside initial nominees Jason Taumololo and Sio Siua Taukeiaho from Tonga and Kangaroos Valentine Holmes, James Tedesco and Boyd Cordner.
England’s Georgia Roche has been added to the women’s list along with Kiwi Ferns centre Honey Hireme and Australians Isabelle Kelly, Ali Brigginshaw and Brittany Breayley.
The panel, drawn from the rugby league media in both hemispheres, will meet again after this Sunday’s second Test between England and New Zealand to select the final short lists for the two Golden Boot awards.
The winners be announced at a special dinner at Elland Road, Leeds, on November 7.
