Ipswich flanker Cristoffel Blom has been named Evening Star/Call Connection player of the month for November.Blom, 24, is originally from South Africa, and has been in Ipswich for one year.

EVENING Star/Call Connection player of the month for November has been awarded to inspirational Ipswich flanker Cristoffel Blom.

Blom, 24, is originally from South Africa, and has been in Ipswich for one year. He was brought over by the rugby club, as part of their overseas players recruitment drive, and works in the town.

Blom has had a quite remarkable month, having become Ipswich's player of the month, following a fantastic start to the season, racking up try after try.

He was also called up at the last minute to play for Northampton Saints Academy side, the Wanderers, against Leeds Tykes.

Having only had half a day to train, and get to know team mates, Blom featured in the starting line-up, alongside several first-team players, and in front of numerous scouts and coaches.

He had a truly fantastic game, earning himself the man of the match award, in front of a huge crowd.

David Broughton, director of rugby at the club, said: “Cristoffel has been playing outstanding rugby this season in addition to a try-scoring blitz.

“This added to being selected to play for Northampton Saints seconds in a match versus Leeds Tykes.

“Cristoffel always gives his all on the rugby pitch and this award is richly deserved, congratulations to him from all associated at IRFC.”

The award was presented by Graeme Kalbraier, managing director of Call Connection, following a pre-match meal last weekend.

Graeme said: “It's great that Cristoffel has got player of the month.

“He is a fantastic player and deserves this award having had such a successful game for Northampton Academy.

“It means a lot to our club to have players of this calibre.”

Blom began playing rugby as a youngster back in South Africa, and went on to play for his provincial side, as well as being involved with the Springboks' Sevens squad.

He is enjoying his time in England, and the move has without doubt given him a huge insight into northern hemisphere rugby.

Blom will no doubt be a name we will be hearing much more of in the world of rugby union in the future.

He will strive to continue his outstanding performances for Ipswich in the new year, and I am sure he will be hearing from Northampton again very soon.