Foy scoops top disability honour

Nathan Foy's recognition as England's player of the year is fully deserved, according to Ian Martin

England Blind batsman Nathan Foy has won the ECB’s inaugural Disability Player of the Year award.

Foy is widely recognised as one of the leading players in his field, and was rewarded for a phenomenal 12 months when he collected his award alongside Andrew Strauss at a glittering ceremony at Lord’s.

Strauss, captain of the England senior side, was named Vodafone Player of the Year, while Claire Taylor landed the women’s honour after helping her side lift the World Cup in Australia.

Foy played a central role in England Blind retaining the Ashes in Australia before Christmas, having served notice of his talent against West Indies last summer.

He smashed 192 off just 87 balls against the Windies at Moseley CC in August, and contributed 74, a sensational 200 and 54 to England's 3-0 Ashes triumph.

Foy’s elevation to such lofty company is testament to his commitment to the sport, according to ECB national disability cricket manager Ian Martin.

“Nathan is classed as a B1 cricketer, which means he has no sight or next to no sight,” he told ecb.co.uk.

“Of those players all over the world, he is the best at what he does, and this award is a reflection of that.

“Nathan understands the preparation and dedication needed at the highest level, and that is why he is so good. He fully deserves this.”

Martin added: "This is the first time we've had an award like this, and it says a lot about how far we have come with disability cricket.

"The ECB has done a great job developing not only disability cricket, but minority cricket in general.

"I am the only full-time disability officer employed by a national governing body and we have made great strides in the last year to 18 months.