England hero hailed... as a top Kiwi

BEN Stokes may have broken the hearts of Kiwi cricket fans, but the all-rounder is now in the running to be named New Zealander of the Year.

The 28-year-old was man of the match as he helped England claim their first World Cup title with a dramatic super-over victory over the Kiwis at Lord’s on Sunday.

New Zealand-born Stokes moved to the UK at a young age after his father Gerard took on a rugby league coaching job. He went on to forge his career here after his parents returned home. Stokes, left, has already received nominations for the award – along with Kiwi cricket captain Kane Williamson, it was revealed yesterday. “The way [Williamson] conducted himself, not only in the face of such devastating disappointment at Lord’s, but throughout the tournament, resonated powerfully with Kiwis,” chief judge Cameron Bennett said. “Interesting to see some having a bob each way: we also received nominations for England’s Ben Stokes.

“He might not have been playing for the Black Caps but, having been born in Christchurch, where his parents now live, and with Maori ancestry, there’s clearly a few Kiwis who think we can still claim him.”

Nominations close on September 15.

Both Tory leadership contenders Boris Johnson and Jeremy Hunt have pledged to give Stokes a knighthood if they win the keys to No 10.