How they work

The PCA devised and launched the MVPs - a statistic that for the first time combines all aspects of a player’s game and gives him a ranking in relation to his peers.

The FTI MVPs are unique in sports statistics - an evaluation of the players, designed by the players. It is their game, it is their statistic.

MVP (Most Valuable Player) is a core concept in American sport and with these new player rankings, MVPs will now become integrated into the fabric of English cricket.

A player’s overall individual performance

In 2006, the PCA undertook an extensive review of all player-performance related statistics in the game. Results highlighted that cricket statistics are:

• Too focused on individual elements of the game – averages, run rates, wickets taken
• Not clear and not relevant to all cricket – ICC rankings and other international stats
• Not reflective of a player’s total contribution to his team

Cricket is a game that requires players to be skilled at multiple disciplines. To take wickets, to score runs, to take catches, to affect run outs. The value to a side of a genuine all-rounder cannot be underestimated.

The FTI MVPs are calculated by combining a player’s overall individual performance.

Current, past first-class and international cricketers have been involved at every step of the design process. FTI MVPs are truly reflective of the players’ view of the game.

The Formula

FTI MVPs use a cumulative points system that rewards players for every run scored, every wicket taken and every catch held – and, how well they do it.

A player achieves bonus points based in certain criteria. An overview of the formula is set out below:

Batting + Bowling + Fielding + Captaincy + Winning = Total FTI MVP points

Batting:

The basis of the batting points are: runs scored + percentage of the team’s total. Batting bonus points are achieved for:

- Reaching a century
- Achieving a benchmark run-rate (varies per tournament, i.e. 1.5 runs per ball in the t20)
- Scoring over 40 per cent of a team’s runs

Bowling:

The basis for the bowling points are: number of wickets + batsmen wicket points – economy

Bowlers achieve higher points for getting out higher order batsmen. Bowling bonus points are achieved for:

- Achieving a benchmark economy rate (varies per tournament, i.e. less that 5 runs per over in t20
- Taking 5 or more wickets in an inning
- Bowling maidens

Fielding:

Points are accumulated for:

- Catches
- Run outs – direct hits
- Run outs – assists
- Stumpings
- Bonus for 5 fielding dismissals in an innings

Captaincy:

A captain of a winning side will receive a points bonus

Winning teams:

All members of a winning team receive a points bonus.