All-rounder Ben Stokes helped England win its first Cricket World Cup trophy. Stokes was instrumental in England’s success throughout the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 and in the final against New Zealand at Lord’s, the all-rounder scored unbeaten 84. For the uninitiated, Stokes was born in Christchurch in New Zealand and then moved to the United Kingdom. Following his World Cup heroics, the all-rounder was nominated for the New Zealander of the year award.

The cricketer, however, has turned down the nomination and instead has nominated Black Caps captain Kane Williamson for the award. Stokes took to Facebook and shared his thoughts in a post. Kumar Dharmasena Refutes James Anderson’s Claim That Ben Stokes Asked Umpire Not to Add Four Overthrows to England Total During CWC 2019 Final.

“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,” Stokes wrote on his Facebook page.

Here's Ben Stokes' post

The all-rounder added that his life is established in the United Kingdom. “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.” ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Final Was Both Best & Worst Day of My Life, Says Martin Guptill.

Stokes was all praises Williamson and felt he is the worthy recipient of the New Zealander of the year award. “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,” the all-rounder wrote.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 23, 2019 04:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).