English cricketer Ben Stokes has been nominated for the New Zealander of The Year award despite breaking his country’s heart at Lord’s. 28-year-old Stokes was named man of the match after England beat New Zealand for a dramatic founder.
The all rounder was born and raised in New Zealand before moving to England when he was 12 years old, and many Kiwis still see the player as one of his own. The award’s chief judge, Cameron Bennett, told reporters that although Stokes is not playing for the Black Caps, having been born in Christchurch where his parents still live, and with Maori ancestry, there are still many Kiwis that believe they can still claim him.
The New Zealand public can nominate inspirational Kiwis for the award, specifically for individuals that they believe have made a significant contribution to the nation and that makes the country proud. Captain of New Zealand, Kane Williamson, has also received a nomination, and will likely prove a tough opponent to beat for Stokes after Williamson was named player of the tournament during the World Cup.
The award is currently in its 11th year, and some of the previous winners include former captain of New Zealand rugby union Riche McCaw, filmmaker Taiki Waititi, and mental health campaigner Make King. Nominations will be closing in September and a panel of judges will be creating a shortlist of 10 candidates that will be announced later this year in December.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Ladbrokes |  | 5/5 | 100% Match up to $250 | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Betway | | 4.9/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
| 4 |  | Picklebet | | 4.6/5 | Login to see promotions | Bet now Review |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
You May Also Like:
Sunil Gavaskar Weighs In On Punjab Kings
India cricketing great Sunil Gavaskar has insisted that 2022 won’t be the year to see Punjab Kings ending their IPL title drought. He said despite the team having a solid ….
RCB Sign Uncapped Afghan Leg-Spinner
Its official: the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have signed uncapped Afghan leg-spinner Izharulhaq Naveed as a net bowler for this year’s Indian Premier League competition. The 18-year-old spinner confirmed the ….
PSL Chair Reveals Huge Change For League
The cash-richest tournament on the planet, the Indian Premier League, may soon face tough competition from the Pakistan Super League (PSL). PSL chairman Ramiz Raja this week hinted at a ….
ICEC Says Cricket Is In A Bad Way
The chair of the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC), Cindy Butts, this week issued a stern word of warning to the world of cricket. Butts said the sport ….
IPL Announces Quarantine Rules For 2022
The Indian Premier League on Thursday revealed its quarantine protocol to franchises for the upcoming tournament. Players will reportedly be expected to spend three days in hard quarantine in their ….