New Zealand awarded MCC’s ‘Spirit of Cricket’ For ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 :

New Zealand men’s cricket team has been awarded the MICC’s ‘Spirit of Cricket‘ award for their “sporting conduct” after the World Cup 2019 Final against England. The award named in memory of BBC broadcaster Christopher Martin-Jenkins is awarded annually to the players or the team which have done something involving respect for their opponents, their own captain, their team, the role of the umpires, and the game’s traditional values.

The New Zealand’s side under Kane Williamson’s captainship was tied on scores with England after the 50-overs match. A Super Over was conducted between the two teams, but the scores had tied again after the Super Over, and the winner of the Final was decided based on the number of boundaries hit during the over.

The match was also subjected to a questionable on-field call by an umpire, which resulted in England receiving an additional overthrow run despite the two batsmen not having crossed at the time of release by the fielder.

MCC president Kumar Sangakkara about New Zealand winning the MCC’s ‘Spirit of Cricket’ award:

MCC president Kumar Sangakarra praised the New Zealand team and said that they are worthy winners of the award, as they displayed a level of sportsmanship, in the heat of battle, that was fitting for such a fantastic final and tournament.

Kumar Sangakarra added that it is a testament to their squad that after a match that will live long in the memory of the cricket that was played in it, they are still talking about the ‘Spirit of Cricket’. He added that the actions of the New Zealand cricket team deserve this recognition.

Australian skipper Kane Williamson was presented with the award during the Test in Hamilton against England, which also resulted in a draw.