New Zealand introduce MVP system

	Who will come out on top: New Zealand state players launch their new kit along with the new ratings system © Getty Images

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has introduced a new system for measuring player performance, with a Most Valuable Player (MVP) initiative similar to the one used in England.

The MVP will be promoted in New Zealand by the New Zealand Cricket Players Association (NZCPA) in association with NZC. Heath Mills, executive manager for the NZCPA is excited about the new plan.

"Based on the successful MVP programme launched in England by the PCA in 2007, the system has been developed by players, for the players and is truly reflective of their view of the game - it is the players' statistic," he said.

"We have worked closely with the PCA in England to secure the rights to the MVP system. [We]are confident its introduction will not only take fan and player involvement in the domestic season to the next level, but that it is also the best indicator to date of a players overall performance and contribution to his team during the season."

The MVP works on a cumulative points system that rewards players for every run scored, every wicket taken and every catch held throughout the season. A player also achieves bonus points based on other criteria important to the outcome of the match.

Dimitri Mascarenhas, the Hampshire captain who will join Otago this season, said the MVP system has been warmly received by the players. "All the lads look at it to judge who is doing well. The MVP is a really good platform to see personally how you are going."

NZC CEO Justin Vaughan added: "Cricket is a game that requires players to be skilled at multiple disciplines, and for the first time the MVP system allows us to directly compare the value of each of these".