England all-rounder Ben Stokes has withdrawn his candidacy for the New Zealander of the Year award.

The Christchurch-born Stokes was nominated for the accolade earlier this month, after starring in England’s World Cup final victory over his country of birth at Lord’s in London.

‘I am flattered to be nominated for New Zealander of the Year,’ said Stokes.

‘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. 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.’

Stokes implored the New Zealander of the Year judges to give the award to Black Caps captain Kane Williamson, who was named Player of the Tournament on the back of a superb stretch of form at the World Cup.

‘I feel the whole country should align their support to New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. He should be revered as a Kiwi legend,’ he added.

‘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.’

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