Graham, who is also expected to be a major contender for the prestigious end-of-season Man of Steel Award and will be 23 today (Wednesday) beat off competition from fellow St Helens team-mates, Leon Pryce and Keiron Cunningham to win the poll.

Other players in contention included Leeds diminutive scrum half Rob Burrow and Catalans pair, Clint Greenshields and Thomas Bosc.

"It's fantastic news from James, " said coach Daniel Anderson.

"I think it has been a break-out season for the young front rower and what he has done this year has been exceptional. He has been tremendous for us.

"James has also been a fairly strong character with the capability of being a leader and he has shown that this year."

Graham is the 13th winner of the RLWA award which was first presented in 1996 when Saints' Apollo Perelini – now the club fitness conditioner, picked up the award.

Other previous winners are past and present Saints' players Paul Wellens, Jamie Lyon, Paul Sculthorpe and Tommy Martyn, as well as Andy Farrell, Trent Barrett and Adrian Lam (Wigan Warriors), Jamie Peacock (Bradford Bulls) and Danny McGuire and Iestyn Harris (Leeds Rhinos), the Welshman picking up the award twice.

The Maghull-born prop will receive his award at the RLWA annual dinner which this year will be held at the Haydock Thistle Hotel on Monday night. Tickets cost £30 and are available from secretary Trevor Hunte, telephone 01943 716383, or 07973391891.