Christchurch-born all-rounder Ben Stokes, who played a pivotal role in England’s win over New Zealand in the 2019 Cricket World Cup final, has been nominated for New Zealander of the Year.
Kiwi captain Kane Williamson, who ended the World Cup as Player of the Tournament, has also been nominated for the prestigious national award.
“[Stokes] might not have been playing for the Black Caps but, having been born in Christchurch where his parents now live and with Maori ancestry, there’s clearly a few Kiwis about who think we can still claim him,” the award’s chief judge Cameron Bennett said after Stokes’ nomination.
His most crucial contribution, however, came in the final against his country of birth. The 28-year-old’s unbeaten 84 from No.5 put his side exactly on par with New Zealand’s first innings score, with England eventually claiming their maiden title after a super over.
“He [Stokes] has been the embodiment of the qualities we cherish as New Zealanders – courage, fairness, humility,” Bennett added.
