New Points System Introduced for Women's Super Smash to Boost Scoring
Revamped Points Structure for Women's Super Smash
Wellington [New Zealand], December 23: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has unveiled a new points system for the upcoming Women's Super Smash season aimed at encouraging higher scores and aligning with the latest international cricket standards, as reported on the NZC website.
The tournament kicks off on Friday, December 26, at Seddon Park, featuring a match between Northern Brave and Auckland Aces and Hearts.
Under the new rules, teams can earn a single bonus point by either scoring 150 runs or more, regardless of whether they bat first or second, or by achieving a run rate that exceeds 1.25 times that of their opponents in the second innings. It's important to note that bonus points will not be applicable during the elimination and grand finals.
An internal review of global trends in international and top domestic competitions indicated a significant increase in scoring rates, boundary percentages, and first-innings averages, highlighting a shift in what is now considered competitive T20 play.
Ben Sawyer, head coach of the WHITE FERNS, expressed that the new points system will motivate performance behaviors that could enhance New Zealand's chances of success on the international stage.
“This is an exciting addition to the competition,” Sawyer stated. “It will reward both aggressive batting and proactive wicket-taking bowling strategies, which are essential skills in this format. We hope this encourages teams to align their playing style with international standards, thereby elevating the domestic game and preparing players for international challenges,” he added.
He also mentioned, “With high-scoring matches anticipated at the T20 World Cup in June, this is a fantastic opportunity for our players to prepare.”
While Sawyer acknowledged that the bonus point system isn't a cure-all for improving batting standards, he views it as a positive step forward.
“We’re not claiming that this revised points structure is the sole solution. Individual skills, tactical awareness, and coaching remain crucial in enhancing the overall batting standards in women's cricket,” Sawyer concluded.
Jonny Bassett-Graham, head coach of Wellington Blaze, expressed his full support for the changes. “I believe this is a significant development for the women's competition. It will encourage teams to adopt a style that not only elevates the standard of cricket but also leads to more entertaining T20 matches. For the players, it’s about being adaptable and embracing changes that will help them develop the skills necessary to break into the international arena,” Bassett-Graham stated.