The Strathdale-Maristians player claimed the award, polling 14 votes across four games.

Taylor beat Eaglehawk’s Zac East on 13 votes and Huntly-North Epsom’s Michael Hanson and Strathfieldsaye’s Ben Devanny who each scored 11 votes.

Taylor, signed from Richmond, said the award meant he had been playing his role within the team.

“I probably haven’t made as many runs as I would like to but the bowling has been pretty good so far,” he said.  

“It has taken a while to get used to the different conditions but I think I have bowled alright and did my bit for the team.

“I have been lucky enough to play with some pretty good bowlers and that has helped me out.”

Taylor said he joined the Suns because his brother Cam Taylor was the captain of the Twenty20 side.

He said the Suns had welcomed him to the team.  

In the Twenty20 season, Taylor scored 92 runs and took seven wickets with the ball.

“It is good to be a part of a team that knows how to win,” Taylor said.

“The team I play for in Melbourne is struggling, we can’t make the finals so it is good to come to Bendigo and have a win.”

Bush’s Produce Stores, one of Bendigo’s longest standing businesses, sponsored the Player of the Year award.

The store will provide Taylor with a $500 in-store voucher.

Bush’s Produce Stores director Nick Crawford congratulated Taylor on his fantastic season.

“It is good to have players like Sam come back to Bendigo to play in the Twenty20 competition,” he said.

In Sunday’s semi-final Taylor smashed 90 off 65 balls, helping the team to a 10-run victory.

The Suns will now play the Power in the grand final on Wednesday at 7pm at the QEO.