Alex Stokoe of Cronkbourne Cricket Club has been named as the first ‘Standard Bank Player of the Month’ for the 2012 season.
Earlier this year, Standard Bank renewed its ongoing sponsorship of the Isle of Man Cricket Association (IOMCA) for the 17th year as part of its 150th anniversary celebrations. The ‘Player of the Month’ award was launched three years ago to recognise individuals who make an outstanding contribution in a match or who display a consistently high level of performance. During the season four awards will be up for grabs by players nominated by the IOMCA.
The judging panel includes Chris Till, Director of Standard Bank, Andy Dalrymple of IOM Newspapers and Gareth Dawson, the IOMCA Development Officer.
Nominations for the period starting in April and running to the end of May included Akkie Van Der Berg, Tom Reader, Garreth Roome and Ollie Webster.
Chris Till, Director of Standard Bank, commenting on the announcement said: “There were a number of strong nominations for the first ‘Player of the Month’ award and we would like to congratulate each on their achievements. It was a very close decision but after deep discussion and deliberation the panel decided on Alex for his excellent performances throughout the period which included a century and 3 for 22 in the victory over Ramsey in the Standard Bank Premiership as well as 18 wickets at an average of 6.3.”
John Coyle, CEO of Standard Bank Isle of Man, said: “We are pleased to celebrate our long-term partnership with the IOMCA as we mark 20 years in the Isle of Man and join our colleagues around the world in celebrating our 150 year heritage. The high standard of cricket played in the island is something we are proud to be associated with and there is an exciting season in prospect for local clubs in the adult leagues and cups.”
The South African bank is headline sponsor of The Standard Bank Premiership, the Championship, the Twenty/20 leagues, the Knockout Challenge Trophy, the Tinker Cup, the Blincoe Cup and the six-a-side competition. It also backs a ‘Player of the Month’ initiative which recognises individuals who make an outstanding contribution in a match or who display a consistently high level of performance during a particular month.
The winner of the ‘Standard Bank Player of the Month’ will receive a £50 sports voucher, a Standard Bank cricket hat and a certificate.
