Sidebottom named England's Player of the Year

London, May 13 (UNI) After a memorable 12-month period and being named one of Wisden's five Cricketers of the Year, pace bowler Ryan Sidebottom added another feather on his cap as he was named England's Player of the Year.

Since his recall in the National side against West Indies, at Headingley, Sidebottam has established himself as the team's main strike bowler.

''This time last year I was training with Nottinghamshire and just playing regular county cricket so it's been a massive turnaround,'' he said.

''But I don't want to get carried away with it and I'm relishing the chance to play at Lord's again. The other 10 guys in the team have made me feel very welcome, which has allowed me to get on with my job. I suppose it goes out to all the players because one player doesn't make a team.'' Sidebottom has taken 53 wickets in 12 Tests, including 24 against New Zealand in March. He claimed a 10-wicket haul and a hat-trick in Hamilton and his seven for 47 in Napier, the best figures by an England bowler for four years, helped to set-up their come-from-behind series win.

Sidebottom has broken into the top 10 of the bowling rankings and also received praise of New Zealand great Richard Hadlee, who said he was the main threat in the series ahead.

''It's a massive compliment coming from a great bowler,'' said Sidebottom. ''On the other hand I'm not taking much notice because they are a difficult team to beat.

''We aren't taking it lightly, especially myself because I've only played a few games. Of course I would like to carry on in the same form but it's not going to be easy. As long as I'm consistent and getting wickets for my team-mates then that's great.'' Meanwhile, The Women's Player of the Year award went to Claire Taylor, while Outstanding Achievement awards were given to the men who scored a 100, claimed a five-wicket haul or held five catches in an innings.

Former leg-spinner Ashley Giles and former opener Marcus Trescothick were also felicitated yesterday night in recognition of their success over the years. Trescothick announced his retirement from international cricket in March and Giles is now on the England selection panel as well as Warwickshire's coach.

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