England's World Cup hero Ben Stokes has turned down the award for the ‘New Zealander of the Year’ and said Black Caps captain Kane Williamson is the worthy recipient of the honour.
Stokes, who was born in New Zealand's Christchurch and moved to England at the age of 12, was nominated for the ‘New Zealander of the Year’ award along with Williamson, after his spirited show in the World Cup final. He was named Man of the Match.
The 28-year-old took to social media to post his statement, issued through his management, that the award “would not sit right” with him.
“I am flattered to be nominated for New Zealander of the Year. I am proud of my New Zealand and Maori heritage but it would not sit right with me to be nominated for this prestigious award. There are people who deserve this recognition more and have done a lot more for the country of New Zealand.”
“I have helped England lift a World Cup and my life is firmly established in the UK — it has been since I was 12-years old.”
“I feel the whole country should align their support to New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. He should be revered as a kiwi legend. He led his team in this World Cup with distinction and honour. He was the player of the tournament and an inspirational leader of men. He shows humility and empathy to every situation and is an all-round good bloke. He typifies what it is to be a New Zealander. He would be a worthy recipient of this accolade. New Zealand, fully support him. He deserves it and gets my vote,” read Stokes's statement.
The all-rounder scored 465 runs and took seven wickets in the World Cup as England edged out New Zealand in a thriller, decided by boundary count, at Lord's on July 14 to clinch their maiden title.
Nominations for the ‘New Zealander of the Year’ award opened on July 1 and close on September 15. A shortlist will be confirmed in December and the winner will be named in February next year. The last sportsman to win the award was former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw in 2016 after he led the side to their second successive Rugby World Cup title in late 2015.
(With inputs from agencies)
