Something for our snappers to aim for...

For the first time ever a photograph from a women's match has been selected as the IRB's Rugby Photograph of the Year.

The winning shot, titled ‘Commitment’, depicts Rachel Poolman, the Wales fly half, shielding herself from the torrential December rain during her side’s 31-7 victory over Italy at Glamorgan Wanderers RFC in Cardiff, Wales in December 2006. Taken by a professional photographer named Andrew Orchard it was voted the best from over 100 entries from around the world.

“Andrew’s image is particularly striking in that it encapsulates the true spirit of the Game. The fact that it was taken at night and in the pouring rain certainly adds to the atmosphere of the occasion where the commitment of the two teams really comes to the fore. This is an image that all who have played the Game at any level can relate to and is a worthy recipient of the IRB/Emirates Rugby Photograph of the Year award,” said International Rugby Board Chairman, Dr Syd Millar.

“The game was played under floodlights at Glamorgan Wanderers RFC which can be a little dark, so when it started raining I knew that there was a chance of shooting something a bit different. I think the rain was at its worst when I took the shot. In the background the girls are preparing for a scrum and Rachel just turned her back for a few seconds, I think she was trying to shield herself from the rain. To be honest she looks like she wants to be somewhere else, and that is pretty much how I felt at the time too,” said winning photographer Andrew Orchard.

Quite how the competition works - ie. who can enter - isn't clear, but maybe it might be worth dropping the IRB a line to see if something from the the Alcock or Threlfall Photographic Agencies might be suitable for next year's competition?