New Zealand win 2019 Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket award

The national cricket team of New Zealand was awarded the Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket award for the year 2019. New Zealand’s team captain Kane Williamson was presented with the award during the drawn second Test between his team and England.

Why was New Zealand Awarded?

The New Zealand team has been recognised for their sporting conduct following a dramatic defeat by England in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 final at Lord’s in July 2019. However, even though England lifted the trophy on basis of boundary count as runs were tied in both 50-over match and Super Over, the New Zealand team gained praise for their humility after losing the premier tournament. Thus, Kane Williamson-led team’s on and off-field display during World Cup final earned them the award.

Kumar Sangakkara, the president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (one of the creators of award) also described New Zealand team are worthy winners of this award.

About Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket award

The award was created in 2013, in memory of Martin-Jenkins, the former MCC president and BBC Test Match Special commentator, to honour his longstanding passion and desire to see the game played in the right spirit. It was the brainchild of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).