Botha wins Ireland player award

Andre Botha had a great year for Ireland with bat and ball

Andre Botha has been named Ireland's International Player of the Year at the inaugural Cricket Writers of Ireland awards dinner.

The North County all rounder had a tremendous season with bat and ball in a year when he won his 100th Irish cap.

He scored 756 runs at an average of 36, and also took 37 wickets at 17.97 in addition to being named in the ICC Associates team of the year.

Cliftonville's Paul Stirling was named Young Player of the Year.

Botha said he was "honoured to be the first recipient of this award".

"It means a lot to me, and it's a privilege to be recognised by the Irish media. They have given the squad unparalled coverage this past few years, and I know just how much the players appreciate it," he added.

Seventeen-year old Stirling played 18 times for Ireland during the year, scoring half centuries against Northants and Italy.

His champagne moment was hitting a six off England spinner Monty Panesar during the season.

Donemana's Junior McBrine was named Club Player of the Year.

The veteran was instrumental as his side won the league and reached the final of the Bob Kerr Irish Senior Cup.

Ireland Under-19 international Eddie Richardson was also announced as the first recipient of the CWI/CricketEurope bursary.

This will help pay for the North County quick bowler to attend a nine-day cricket clinic in India next month.

The function, at the Civil Service Complex at Stormont in Belfast, was supported by Sport Northern Ireland and Harrison Photography.