Three Irish players have been included on the nominations list for the RBS 6 Nations Player of the Tournament.

The shortlist, drawn up by former internationals from all six participating countries, includes Brian O'Driscoll, Paul O'Connell, Jamie Heaslip of Ireland, English full-back Delon Armitage and Italian captain Sergio Parisse.

O'Driscoll, O'Connell and Heaslip have all been key members of the squad that has brought Ireland to the verge of its first Championship title in several decades, while Lee Byrne is defending champions Wales' only representative.

Armitage, meanwhile, has made a fantastic impression on his England side since making his senior debut last November, and Parisse has been immense once again for Nick Mallet's men - despite their four defeats.

Voting is taking place on rbs6nations.com until 5pm on Monday, March 23.