New Zealand Players' Association awards: Southee, Devine win big
New Zealand pacer Tim Southee oclaimed the top honors in the annual Players' Association awards for his performance in the home series against India. Meanwhile, Sophie Devine bagged the women's top award in Wellington. Southee joins the likes of Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor as multiple winners of the award. Devine's award is her third consecutive one. Here's more.
Southee and Devine earn praise
Daniel Vettori presented the cap to Southee and said, "Tim has had a remarkable year and is a truly deserving recipient of this award". Meanwhile, NZCPA Board member former White Fern Rebecca Rolls said "it is a real honor to be able to present this award to such a deserving recipient in Sophie."
'Southee headed off several players in a close voting result'
"Tim Southee headed off several players in a very close voting result before ultimately securing his second The Players' Cap with a compelling series against India at home," the New Zealand Players' Association said in a statement.
Southee has been exceptional for New Zealand
Tim Southee was exceptional in the Tests against India and scalped 14 wickets. Prior to that, he also did well in the ODIs. In 73 Tests, he has 284 scalps. He has also taken 190 ODI wickets and 78 T20I scalps. Southee has been a leader for the Black Caps and it's a joy to watch him play.
Devine has been an inspiration for NZ
Devine has been an inspiration for New Zealand Women. She scored her sixth consecutive 50+ score even though New Zealand failed to go past the group stages in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. She has represented NZ Women in 105 ODIs and 91 T20Is.