"I understand change is always unsettling, particularly for those directly affected, " said HSBC's chief executive, Brian Robertson.

BBC: HSBC bank cutting 3,166 UK jobs

CNN's Saad Abedine, Anna Maja Rappard, Brian Todd, Nic Robertson and Joe Sterling contributed to this report.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The Newcastle Falcons playmaker faces competition for the prize from France's Fabien Galthie, Australian Stephen Larkham, Irish centre Brian O'Driscoll and Scott Robertson of New Zealand.

BBC: Wilkinson in line for top honour