Flintoff and Brunt take honours

Andrew Flintoff and Katherine Brunt have been named as the Vodafone England Cricketers of the Year for 2006.

Vodafone UK Ltd, the official sponsors of the England cricket teams, announced the winners at the annual awards dinner held in London.

Andrew Flintoff and Katherine Brunt show off their Vodafone awards

Coming at the end of what has been a truly stellar year for English cricket, during which the sport captured the imagination of an entire nation, the accolade is awarded annually to a member of both the men’s and women’s England cricket teams, in recognition of their consistently outstanding performances over the past summer and winter series.

Previous winners include Andrew Strauss, Darren Gough, Charlotte Edwards and Clare Connor.

“As Vodafone enters into its ninth year as the official sponsor of the English Cricket Teams, we couldn’t be prouder of the achievements of both the men’s and women’s teams,” said Lord MacLaurin, chairman of Vodafone Group Plc.

“Last summer’s Ashes Series proved that cricket holds a special place in the hearts of the British public and we’re delighted to be able to officially recognise the talents and performances of two outstanding cricketers, Andrew Flintoff and Katherine Brunt, both of whom were instrumental in ensuring England emerged victorious, in both Series, at the end of what was a fantastic year for English cricket."

On receiving his award, Flintoff said: “To be named as one of the Vodafone Cricketers of the Year is a great honour.

"It’s been a fantastic year for English cricket and I’m very proud to have been able to play a part in regaining the Ashes."

He added: "The support I’ve received from the British public has been very humbling and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their words of encouragement.

"I’m now looking forward to building on this success during what promises to be a very exciting summer for English cricket as we head towards another Ashes series and a World Cup campaign this winter."

Katherine Brunt was also delighted to have been recognised, saying: “I love playing for my country and am very honoured to have won this award.

"As a team we’ve enjoyed a fantastic 12 months and I’m delighted to have been able to play my part in ensuring we regained the Ashes.

"The women’s game in England is gaining in strength year on year and I’m looking forward to another successful summer."