Ben Stokes, the England World Cup winning hero, admits he is "flattered" to be nominated for the New Zealander of the Year award.

However, the Durham all-rounder is adamant Black Caps captain Kane Williamson is a deserving winner of the accolade.

Stokes was man of the match as England dramatically won the trophy at Lord’s. Born in New Zealand, Stokes moved to England aged 12, as the family settled in Cumbria before he was signed up for Durham’s prolific academy system.

Williamson was named player of the tournament and received praise and accolades galore for the way he conduced himself throughout the tournament, not only in defeat.

Stokes has issued a statement to clarify his stance

"It would not sit right with me to be nominated for this prestigious award," it reads.

"There are people who deserve this recognition more and have done a lot more for the country of New Zealand.

"I have helped England lift a World Cup and my life is firmly established in the UK."

The New Zealand public nominates "inspirational Kiwis" for the award - those who they believe have made a "significant contribution to our nation and make us proud of our country".

Previous winners have included former New Zealand rugby union captain Richie McCaw, filmmaker Taika Waititi and mental health campaigner Mike King.

Stokes added he was "proud" of his New Zealand and Maori heritage, but said of former Yorkshire batsman Williamson: "He should be revered as a Kiwi legend. He led his team in this World Cup with distinction and honour.

"He was the player of the tournament and an inspirational leader of men. He shows humility and empathy to every situation and is an all-round good bloke.

"He typifies what it is to be a New Zealander. He would be a worthy recipient of this accolade. New Zealand, fully support him. He deserves it and gets my vote."