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Black Caps veteran Ross Taylor claimed the top honor on the final day of the 2020 New Zealand Cricket Awards, winning the prestigious Sir Richard Hadlee Medal for the third time.
The virtual ceremony also saw Canterbury umpire Kim Cotton’s sharp rise through the officiating ranks recognized with the New Zealand Cricket umpire of the year award, while Tim Southee was judged international test player of the year.
For Taylor, it was a season of milestones as he helped guide the Black Caps’ ODI side to a second successive Cricket World Cup final, surpassed Stephen Fleming’s all-time test runs scoring record for New Zealand, and became the first cricketer to play 100 international games in each of the three formats.
The 36-year-old was once again the glue in the top order, amassing 1389 runs across the three formats in a season in which I played in all but one of the Black Caps’ 32 internationals, from England to Sri Lanka, Australia and at home.
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Getty-Images
Black Caps veteran Ross Taylor took out New Zealand Cricket’s supreme Sir Richard Hadlee Medal for the third time.
The virtual presentation via video link with Hadlee was full of meaning as New Zealand’s greatest cricketer reflected on the journey taken by Taylor.
“I’ve followed your career since 2006 as I was part of the selection panel when you played your first ODI and then test match,” Hadlee said.
“I’ve watched your progress over the past 14 years and I just want to congratulate you on all your performances and records to date.
“You’ve been a wonderful performer, you’ve got a fantastic record and on behalf of New Zealand Cricket I’d just like to say thanks very much for your contribution, not only to New Zealand cricket, but to world cricket.”
It is the third time Taylor has won the supreme award in its 10 year history and he said it was an honor to have it presented by Hadlee.
Thanks Paddles. It’s been an amazing year, ” Taylor said.
Getty-Images Senior Black Cap Ross Taylor had a memorable season, scoring runs across all three formats to be judged New Zealand Cricket’s top performer.
“It’s been full of ups and downs. A World Cup final – losing that final. The Boxing Day test, which was such a proud moment to be part of and to have so many Kiwis there supporting us was something I’ll never forget.
“I was happy with the consistency this season and any time you can contribute to the team performance and help get the team across the line is special.
Taylor chuckled when quizzed by Hadlee about his preferred format.
“My daughter asked me that this morning.
“I really enjoy playing T20 cricket. I feel one-day cricket is probably my best format, but test cricket, and when you succeed at test cricket that’s the ultimate and most satisfying.
Taylor reflected on the influence of the late Martin Crowe, who was instrumental in developing the right hander’s test technique and helping him to set his goals.
“I’m sure he would be proud of this,” Taylor said.
Hagen Hopkins / Getty-Images Ross Taylor takes the field with children Mackenzie, right, and Jonty prior to playing his 100th test against India at the Basin Reserve in February.
“Marty was able to pass on a lot of his experience and wisdom which has played a massive part in my career.
“It was always something that he always pushed me to do (break records). I think he would probably be surprised at how well I have done.
“But I’ve been fortunate to be helped by a lot of people over the years and I guess when you win awards like this it’s nice to be able to thank them.”
Hagen Hopkins / Getty-Images
Kim Cotton was named New Zealand Cricket umpire of the year.
NZC president Debbie Hockley presented Cotton with the New Zealand Cricket umpire of the year award following a season which saw the practicing lawyer become the first Kiwi woman to stand in an ICC World Cup final.
“It’s been a busy journey, but I’ve absolutely loved it,” Cotton said.
“I was a bit surprised to be asked to do the final – it was an amazing experience. The atmosphere and the noise was unreal. I thoroughly enjoyed the game and it was so great to be part of. ”
Cotton, who has just finished her 10th season of umpiring said her passion for officiating was as strong as ever.
Kai Schwoerer / Getty-Images
New Zealand’s Tim Southee celebrates after dismissing Virat Kohli of India during the second test in Christchurch.
Southee’s strong season with the red ball was underlined with his second award of the week, taking out the test player of the year title to go with the Winsor Cup for first-class bowling.
The 31-year-old claimed 40 wickets from eight tests, including 14 in the two test wins against India in Wellington and Christchurch.
A measure of his influence is that, in the four tests the Black Caps won during the judging period, he took 25 wickets at a Hadlee-esque 16.40 average.
AT A GLANCE:
Friday awards:
International Test Player of the Year: Tim Southee (Northern Districts)
New Zealand Umpire of the Year: Kim Cotton
Sir Richard Hadlee Medal: Ross Taylor (Central Stags)
