New Zealand cricket team led by Kane Williamson has been awarded the 2019 Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket Award on Tuesday, December 3, for their grace and sporting conduct in the aftermath of a dramatic World Cup final defeat by England at Lord's in July.

In the epic 2019 ICC World Cup final at Lord’s, the hosts England might have defeated the Black Caps in a very dramatic and controversial way – on the basis of boundary count to win their maiden coveted title, but Williamson and his team won millions of hearts for their great sportsmanship.

Read Also: Root, Williamson react after New Zealand wins the Test series 1-0 

The Kiwis were universally lauded for showing an exceptional level of sportsmanship, humility, and selflessness in a heart-breaking defeat in the title clash despite equal efforts at Lord’s.

MCC president Kumar Sangakkara said on the recognition: “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 finale, and indeed tournament.”

The Sri Lanka legend signed off by saying, “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.”

Noteworthy, the Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket Award was created in 2013 by Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and the BBC in memory of former MCC President and BBC Test Match Special commentator Christopher Martin-Jenkins. It was presented annually to the player or team that has "best epitomized the principles of playing hard but in the spirit of the game.

(With BBC Inputs)