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Kane Williamson, Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine and Ross Taylor took the honors for limitations at the annual New Zealand Cricket Awards.
Williamson claimed the ODI Men’s Player of the Year title after his outstanding 2019 World Cup campaign, where he was named tournament player with 578 runs at 82.57.
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“Kane totally deserved his pick,” said the men’s head coach Gary Stead. “He builds great alliances with our well-established midfield and when he hits deep in an ODI inning, we will invariably be in a good position to win most of those games.”
“He leads the team well, has his own style and certainly the respect of his teammates. His calm and determined demeanor flows through his leadership and, in turn, from the team.”
Bates was named Women’s ODI Player of the Year after playing two and a half centuries in three matches against South Africa, the team’s only games in format in the past 12 months.
On the front of the T20, Devine’s prolific career continued to be recognized with the women’s award after she became the first player, male or female, to score five T20I half a century in a row, which she extended to six while accumulating 429 races during the period.
“What can I say? Sophie had an outstanding season with the bat at T20 cricket,” said female head coach Bob Carter. “Our T20 side is at its best when Sophie is scoring runs at the top. She gives others around her the freedom to play her natural game.
“Sophie’s ability with the ball in the T20 cricket goes unnoticed at times. She often goes ahead and plays with the hard shots and uses the change of pace to her advantage. She is a high-quality off-roader and exceptional T20 talent.”
Taylor claimed the men’s T20 award after constant returns against Sri Lanka, England and India.
The last group of awards, which are being made virtually due to covid-19, will be announced on Friday and will include Test Player of the Year, Referee of the Year and Sir Richard Hadlee Medal.
