MCC pick New Zealand for 2019 Spirit of Cricket Award
New Zealand were awarded the Christopher Martins-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket award by the MCC for displaying phenomenal 'sporting conduct' post their excruciating World Cup final loss at the hands of hosts England.
MCC President Kumar Sangakkara hailed the amazing spirit shown by the entire New Zealand squad, led by Kane Williamson and said that they were worthy winners of the Spirit of Cricket Award despite going through a roller-coaster of emotions till the last ball. He said:
“The New Zealand team are worthy winners of this award. In the heat of battle, they displayed a level of sportsmanship that was fitting for such a fantastic final, and indeed tournament."
"It is a testament to their squad that even after a match that will live long in the memory for the cricket that was played, we are still talking about the Spirit of Cricket. Their actions deserve this recognition.”
The World Cup final-loss at the hands of England proved to be one of the most agonising defeats, even eclipsing the 2015 World Cup loss against Australia in the finals. England walked away as champions of the world by virtue of more boundaries scored after a draw in the super over failed to give a winner.