Evans: Poses with his award

The former All-Black, 31, has been in imperious form with the boot for the table-topping Londoners and beat club-mate Chris Robshaw to the prize.

"I was very surprised and humbled to win this award," Evans said. "It is a great honour to be voted for by your fellow professionals. Just to be nominated was a huge honour in itself.

"I've got great respect and admiration for all the guys on the (Quins) team, and they've made my job easy this year.

"We've had a fantastic season so far, and hopefully we can finish the job at Twickenham on Saturday."

Robshaw was named as the runner-up, while Northampton centre George Pisi claimed third place.

Saracens fly-half Owen Farrell pipped Gloucester backs Jonny May and Freddie Burns to the young player award.

"It is a massive honour just to be nominated, never mind win this award, especially as it is voted for by your fellow professionals," Farrell said.

"These are the guys you play against week in, week out and all you want to do is earn their respect. It is so humbling."

England World Cup winner Jason Robinson was inducted into the RPA hall of fame.

Long-serving Saracens lock Hugh Vyvyan took the special merit award, Mat Turner was England sevens player of the year, while the Blyth Spirit award went to ex-Saracens player Alex Bennett.