By Sam Ryan

At the end of another brilliant season, it’s time to pick the Shute Shield team of the year.

It’s a difficult task and takes nothing away from the fantastic form of a lot of players who don’t appear below.

But it’s also great recognition for the players that do, many of whom should be on the radar of professional sides in Australia and around the world.

First up, the forward pack.

1) Lewis Ponini - Eastern Suburbs

Now in his fourth season in the Shute Shield, 25-year old Kiwi prop Lewis Ponini shored up the Beasties scrum, which made this year's premiership possible. Ponini also earned a Super Rugby debut in a big 12 months.