This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: An analytical method could help high-level cricket franchises make more informed decisions about player recruitment, retention and team selection, according to research published in the International Journal of Services and Operations Management. The approach uses data envelopment analysis (DEA) to compare efficiency using multiple inputs and outputs.
In the world of cricket, this means assessing players against their peers rather than relying on individual statistics. The research used publicly available data to evaluate the performance of batters and bowlers, with a separate model applied to each group. Metrics included balls faced, runs scored, runs conceded and wickets taken.
The approach offers an effective assessment of players compared with baseline performance in the sport. Moreover, it can identify high performers whose value might be overlooked by conventional assessments. While the instincts of coaches, managers and others involved in selecting players will always play the biggest part in the process, having statistics to back a controversial decision could improve the process and give decision-makers a factual basis to defend it.
Ultimately, such an approach could be used more broadly in cricket and other sports, helping organizations distinguish measurable productivity from reputation. This should bring greater transparency to decisions about investment, performance improvement and the allocation of resources. Sanjeev Bordoloi et al., Performance evaluation of cricket players in Indian Premier League using DEA, International Journal of Services and Operations Management (2026).
DOI: 10.1504/ijsom.2026.156601 BA art history, MA material culture. Former museum editor, paramedic, and transplant coordinator. Editing for Science X since 2021.
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