Kane Williamson is used to gaining accolades but Friday night's Bay of Plenty Sports Awards at ASB Arena was particularly special for him.
The record-breaking Black Caps batsman won the coveted Bayleys Real Estate Sportsman of the Year award ahead of a world-class group of nominees in fellow Black Cap Trent Boult, sailing superstar Peter Burling, Olympic rower Adam Ling and All Black Sam Cane.
Williamson admitted he would not have voted for himself, as he accepted the award from former Tour de France cyclist and MC for the evening Julian Dean.
"It is so hard to compare sports. It really could have gone to anyone but it is great to receive this award amongst so many fantastic athletes in different fields," Williamson said.
"They have done so many special things, so to ultimately get the award is a good feeling and something to be proud of. This event is celebrating success and a lot of voluntary work and coaches, so it is really good."