Ryan Sidebottom's impressive return to international cricket has seen him named England's player of the year.

The 30-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding run of form since his recall to the squad in May 2007 after a six-year absence.

"I feel I've matured and developed as a bowler and am very proud to have played a role in England's successes over the past 12 months," said Sidebottom.

Sidebottom received his first cap against Pakistan at Lord's in 2001.

But the then Yorkshire quick finished with match figures of 0-64 and never figured again under Duncan Fletcher.

Following his move to Trent Bridge, Sidebottom experienced an upturn in form and, with Fletcher replaced by Peter Moores as coach, made his comeback in the second Test against West Indies last summer.

He helped England to a 3-0 victory, finishing with 16 wickets in the series.

Sidebottom was then named man of the series as England won the one-day international tournament in Sri Lanka but it was during the New Zealand leg of England's winter tour that he really shone.

Decimating the hosts with 24 wickets at 17.08, including 7-47 in the final Test in Napier, Sidebottom established himself as England's premier fast bowler and he has been rewarded by the England and Wales Cricket Board with a central contract in 2008.

The Nottinghamshire seamer has another chance to tame New Zealand in the return series, starting at Lord's on Thursday.

The Women's player of the year award went to batsman Claire Taylor.