White Ferns captain Suzie Bates has come away as one of the big winners from the recent Otago University Blues and Gold Awards. 
The ceremony recognised the cultural and sporting top achievers from the university, with Bates being named the Sportswoman and Maori Sportsperson of the year.
The accolades add yet just another string to Bates’s C.V, with the Ngai Tahu member having represented New Zealand in both cricket and basketball.
At the end of last year Bates made the decision to commit her immediate future to the White Fern’s having been named to succeed Amy Watkins as skipper. Her choice was pivotal for the side and she has shown her value ever since.
The 25 year-old has some of the best statistics in the side and is ranked as one of the top eight batsman in world Twenty20 cricket, as well as one of the top five all-rounders.
The modest Bates says she feels lucky to be in the position she is.
“To be recognised by the university was a real honour for me and I just feel extremely privileged to be acknowledged for doing the things I love,” said Bates.
I’ve had a lot of support which I’m grateful for and have enjoyed myself every step of the way. Hopefully I get the opportunity to continue playing the sports that I’m really passionate about.”
Outside of her incredibly busy sporting schedule, Bates has also been studying towards a degree in Physical Education, which she recently completed. She certainly doesn’t lack talent.
Bates heads across the ditch soon to play in the Australian domestic cricket competition. She will then join the White Ferns to face their neighbours in the Rose Bowl in December, before heading to India for the ICC Women’s World Cup (50 over) in January.
