The 21 year old has made a big impression on Irish and European rugby this season.
Robbie Henshaw is full endorsing Jamie Osborne's international call up for the six nations.
Ireland get their campaign underway in Cardiff on Saturday against Wales.
Henshaw is biding his time recovering from injury and hopes to make the squad at the tournament progresses.
The Athlone man was asked if he was surprised at his team mate's inclusion:
Five Irishmen, including Osborne, are on the shortlist for the EPCR Player of the Year award following the Heineken Champions Cup pool stages.
Josh van der Flier is in contention to win the award for the second year in a row, while Leinster team-mates Osborne, Caelan Doris, and Garry Ringrose are also included among the 15 nominees.
Munster number eight Gavin Coombes is also nominated.
The shortlist will be narrowed down to five following the Champions Cup semi-finals, and players not shortlised - who impress in the knockout rounds - can still be considered.
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