Key Performance Indicators for Factor Score based Ranking in ODI Cricket

Abstract

Ranking of players is an important aspect of any sport. Player rankings are of concern to sports authorities, the players and the enthusiasts and with commercialization of sports it is even more important to the investors. This paper explores the factor analysis approach to rank players in One Day International (ODI) cricket. The paper ranks batsmen and bowlers who have played during the calendar year 2015. It uses a dynamic approach of generating factor scores on a match by match basis which may be used for further analysis such as valuation of players, as the ranks can be considered as a good representation of a player’s form and performance. The model uses a new set of performance indicators affecting the performance of a player (batsman/bowler), many of which are ignored by the earlier ranking systems including the most widely used ICC ranking system. The uniqueness of the paper lies in the introduction of new variables and refinement to the existing variables that helps in more accurate measurement of performance and its impact in ranking. The factor analysis approach can also be extended to the other formats of the game. It can also be used to rank all-rounders and wicket-keepers using suitable variables.