There's optimism from the head of Super Rugby Pacific that players and coaches will stay genuine with their votes for the competition's new award.

The Player of the Year gong will be voted on by the captains and head coaches, who will dish out points to their top three players from the opposing team after every match.

Jack Mesley says the sport had a really good year last year - and they're hoping to build on that.

"We think things like this, the introduction of awards, fantasy rugby - which we're also introducing - are all great initiatives that will increase engagement."

LISTEN ABOVE