EDITION 30 May Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star teams announced THIS ISSUE Allan Border Medal Masters Wrap Up

Transcription

1 EDITION 30 May Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star teams announced THIS ISSUE 2010 Allan Border Medal Masters Wrap Up

2 ACA Welcome After a period of international cricket that seemed as though it would never end, the Australian teams are finally enjoying a period of well earned rest. Our teams did, however finish the season in style with strong victories over Pakistan, West Indies and New Zealand which augers well for what is a vital 12 months ahead. Paul Marsh The respective State competitions produced well deserved victories to Victoria (in the Sheffield Shield and Big Bash) and Tasmania (in the Ford Ranger Cup). Congratulations to both teams on their success, and in particular the Bushrangers whose performances in all three competitions over the past few years have been as good as any State team in history. Congratulations also to the Redbacks for joining the Bushrangers in qualifying for the lucrative Champions League T20 event in September this year. I m sure both teams will represent Australia well. Our women cricketers also had a successful summer, particular in the ODI form of the game. The Southern Stars dominated their New Zealand counterparts in the Rose Bowl by winning all eight games. The White Ferns did, however dominate the T20 series with a five-nil clean sweep. The NSW Breakers claimed an amazing fifth consecutive WNCL title with a good win against the Victorian Spirit, however the Spirit turned the tables in an exciting inaugural WNCL T20 competition. The conclusion of the season saw the presentation of various team and individual awards. The Allan Border Medal, Johnnie Walker ACA All Star Teams and ACA Most Valuable Player awards have all been presented and are detailed within. Congratulations to all winners and in particular to Shane Watson in winning the Allan Border Medal. Shane s battles with injuries over the years are known to all so to see him produce performances of such consistency and quality over the past 12 months is a credit to him and is very exciting for Australian cricket. Operationally the ACA has had a busy time recently. A major recent issue has been the security situation relating to the Indian Premier League. As has been well documented, the IPL initially refused to allow players or player associations to even review the security plans for this year s event. We eventually were able to access these plans through our contracted security advisor, and from there we were able to provide players with as much relevant information as possible in order to allow them to make informed decisions as to whether or not to travel to India for the event. Through this process our advisor identified various concerns with aspects of the event s security and was able to address many of these with the IPL s security people. We continued to play a monitoring role for players through the provision of ongoing reports and feeding back to the IPL any issues reported to us by players. This process was made far more difficult for all parties than it needed to be by the IPL s ongoing refusal to deal directly with player associations. Whilst we will continue to seek a productive relationship with the IPL, it is clear this will not be achieved in the foreseeable future. As such we would expect similar difficulties on all IPL-related matters going forward. ACA has also devoted significant time recently to the development of a proposal for various player-related aspects of CA s planned expansion of the Big Bash competition. Whilst a decision as to the structure of this competition going forward has yet to be made, ACA s proposal was developed on the assumption that the Big Bash would move away from the traditional six team State competition to an eight team, club competition. The proposal focuses on issues including how ACA believes competitive balance would best be achieved, our view as to optimum squad sizes, how to factor in Australian and Overseas players and the mechanics of the player allocation process. It s our understanding that the CA Board will shortly make a decision on the structure of this competition and from there I d expect CA and ACA to negotiate the various playerrelated aspects detailed in our proposal as well as the player payment model for this competition. Our other major recent project has been the development of a new Strategic Plan for the period. An overview of the plan is provided within and it should give members an understanding of where we are seeking to take the ACA business over the next three years. Our ACA Masters program continues to build and we have recently completed another successful season. The purpose of the program is to promote and grow the game of cricket whilst using our membership to positively contribute to the community. We are achieving all of these objectives and I thank all of the players who have participated for their involvement and commitment and to Sarah Mitchell for an outstanding job in managing the program. The membership drive has now finished and I m very pleased to report that we have reached a record 941 members. This eclipses our previous record of 814 and I d like to take the opportunity to welcome all new members and also to congratulate Membership Manager Peter Roach on his efforts in achieving this outcome. We look forward to meeting as many of our new members as possible throughout the year. We have recently re-vamped our website and I encourage all members to visit www. auscricket.com.au for any information on the ACA. I d also encourage any member who wants to make a contribution by way of written piece, interview or anything else of interest to let us know. Finally I d like to formally welcome our new Administration Assistant Keira Wills. Keira replaced Megan Fedke and started with us in January. She has just completed Year 12 at Frankston High School, scored 91/99 in her VCE, and is an elite netballer who has represented Victoria and Australia at underage levels. Regards PAUL MARSH Chief Executive 2 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010

3 Diageo representative Brendan Waycott presents to John Hastings The Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Interstate Four-Day Team of the Year in batting order is: Ed Cowan (TAS) Phillip Hughes (NSW) Michael Klinger (SA) Vice-Captain George Bailey (TAS) Captain Usman Khawaja (NSW) Steven Smith (NSW) John Hastings (VIC) Ben Cutting (QLD) Trent Copeland (NSW) Peter George (SA) 12th man David Hussey (VIC) The Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Interstate One-Day Team of the Year in batting order is: Michael Klinger (SA) Phil Jaques (NSW) Brad Hodge (VIC) Vice-Captain George Bailey (TAS) Captain Lee Carseldine (QLD) Travis Birt (TAS) Matthew Wade (VIC) John Hastings (VIC) Xavier Doherty (TAS) Ben Cutting (QLD) Nathan Rimmington (QLD) 12th man Daniel Christian (SA) The Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Interstate Twenty20 Team of the Year in batting order is: Shaun Marsh (WA) David Warner (NSW) Brad Hodge (VIC) Captain Tim Paine (TAS) Kieron Pollard (SA) James Hopes (QLD) Chris Simpson (QLD) Vice-Captain Daniel Christian (SA) Aaron Heal (WA) John Hastings (VIC) Shaun Tait (SA) 12th man Brad Knowles (WA) 2009/10 Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star teams The Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star teams for the 2009/10 season were announced at the State Cricket Awards on Monday 15 March at the MCG. The culmination of the interstate season, All*Star teams were presented for the Interstate Four-Day, the Interstate One-Day and Interstate Twenty20 competitions. Announced by ACA CEO Paul Marsh, each team member was presented with a commemorative team shirt featuring their individual name and batting number. In addition, each team member received a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue label and they will receive a framed commemorative memorabilia item in the coming weeks. The Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star teams were determined by a vote of contracted Australian, State and Rookie players voting for the respective teams and selection is considered a highly coveted honour. Players could not vote for members of their own squad and eligibility for each team was restricted to players who had played a minimum of five games in the respective competitions. The ACA thanks Johnnie Walker for their fantastic ongoing support of these awards, as well as the ACA and the player group. ACA ONSIDE MAY

4 Scott Walter George Bailey Michael Klinger Johnnie Walker ACA Players of the Month Exclusively sponsored by Johnnie Walker, the Player of the Month is voted for by contracted Cricket Australia, State and Rookie players. The award is presented for the six months of the domestic cricket season from October to March and recognises the achievements of the best performed player in the Interstate Four-Day, One-Day and Twenty20 competitions. The Player of the Month winners for 2009/10 are as follows: October - Scott Walter Queensland Bull and rising star Scott Walter took out the first Johnnie Walker ACA Player of the Month award for the 2009/10 season. A promising left-arm fast bowler, Walter received 29% of votes, narrowly beating Victoria s Brad Hodge and fellow Queenslander Lee Carseldine. Having only played one Four-Day game in the 2008/09 season, the 20 year-old enjoyed an outstanding start to the season, taking 13 wickets in three Four-Day appearances and five wickets in three One-Day matches. Best figures in the longer form of the game included 6 for 141 in his side s draw against Western Australia and 5 for 91 against Tasmania. In a standout performance, Walter took 4 for 34 in Queensland s opening One- Day match for the season, helping his side take home the points. November - George Bailey Tasmanian Captain George Bailey was named the Johnnie Walker ACA Player for the Month for November. On the back of an outstanding string of performances in both the Four-Day and One-Day competitions, Bailey received 26% of votes from his peers, placing him ahead of second place-getter South Australian Cameron Borgas with 22% of votes and third placed Western Warrior Wesley Robinson with 14%. During the month of November alone, Bailey scored a total of MVP points and accumulated 206 Four-Day runs at an average of Bailey also dominated in the One-Day format with 179 runs from three matches. December - Michael Klinger Prolific run-getter Michael Klinger was the standout player for the month of December. The South Australian batsman and State Player of the Year continued on with his good form scoring a total of 405 runs in South Australia s two Four-Day matches for December. Despite his side s loss, Klinger scored freely against Victoria, with 207 not out in the first innings and 29 not out in the second for a total haul of MVP points. He backed up this performance with 109 not out in the Redback s first innings against the Warriors and a solid 60 in the second innings. January - Daniel Christian South Australian Daniel Christian was voted the Johnnie Walker ACA Player of the Month for January. Daniel s outstanding performances with the bat and ball in all three forms of the game were an integral part to the Redback s success during January, including making the Twenty20 Final. In just two One-Day matches, Christian took five wickets with best figures of 4-32 and made a total of 138 runs. Christian added points to his MVP total and finished fifth in the Overall MVP rankings. February - Phillip Hughes Phillip Hughes was the Johnnie Walker ACA Player of the Month for February. The New South Welshman performed strongly in the Blues Four-Day matches throughout the month of February. Hughes scored a century in a loss to Victoria at the MCG and an outstanding score of 192 to get the Blues home in Adelaide the following round. The impressive 192 run knock also scored Hughes man of the match honours. New South Wales continued their visiting tour on to Hobart to defeat the Tigers by 216 runs, with Hughes scoring two half centuries. Hughes also performed solidly in the One-Day format, his main highlight scoring 44 in the Blues five wicket loss to the Bushrangers. March Steven Smith Steven Smith capped off a very successful 2009/10 season adding the Johnnie Walker ACA Player of the Month Award to his achievements in March. Smith took out the Steve Waugh Medal as well as the Four-Day and One-Day Player of the Year for New South Wales. Smith took 12 wickets in the last two Four- Day matches for the year. This included a seven wicket haul at the SCG in a match against South Australia. He took five wickets at Bellerive Oval where he also made a top score of 177 for the Blues in a win over Tasmania. Following his outstanding form, Smith was selected in the Australian squad to tour New Zealand and took out the Overall Interstate MVP title. 4 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010

5 Daniel Christian Phillip Hughes Steven Smith ACA fights Facebook fraud The huge growth in popularity of social networking websites, such as Facebook, Twitter and My Space has seen a similar growth in the number of fake profiles of high profile people on these websites. This problem has affected professional sportspeople around the world and this has included a significant number of ACA members including both CA and State players. Fake profiles are dangerous to the image and reputation of past and present cricketers, as they sometimes result in offensive and other inappropriate comments being publicly posted on the internet in a way that represents that they are being made by the player, when in fact they are made completely without the player s knowledge or approval. With a number of players now having their own official Facebook or Twitter profiles or official personal websites, fake profiles can unfairly attract traffic from fans away from official sites and therefore have an adverse affect on the value of the player s online assets. We are also aware of cases where individual, personal messages have been sent by impostors from fake profiles, including at least one case where messages have been sent to other ACA members. While players often have legal rights against the social networking sites or individuals who have created the fake profiles, in reality these may be difficult to pursue. Also, even where a player is successful in a legal claim, it is doubtful if such a legal action can truly remedy the reputational damage which can arise from fake profiles. The ACA therefore recommends taking early action to have fake profiles removed. We have achieved this on behalf of a significant number of members who have requested our assistance. If you are being misrepresented through a fake Facebook, My Space or Twitter profile please feel free to contact the ACA Legal Counsel, Michael Abrahams for assistance on or mabrahams@auscricket.com.au. Membership Update ACA membership continues to mean different things to different people. To some it is the simple cost benefit equation that a $40 outlay provides significantly greater benefits each year. For several it is the social opportunities to catch up with old friends, others the feeling of belonging and knowing that the Association supports former comrades that may be doing it tough. For the current players it is perhaps about work that the ACA does in negotiating workplace conditions with Cricket Australia. Some past players also see membership of the ACA as a show of support for the current crop of players as they reach for the stars. The ACA is though just happy for the support of all members young or old, male or female, past player or present. And support is what we have received this year with a record 941 past and present players taking out ACA membership. This represents a 15% increase on our previous record membership achieved in 2007/08. Life membership has also increased by over 20% on 2008/09, taking our tally to 381. The ACA thanks all members for their support and hope that the Ashes summer of 2010/11 can once again set new records. Members are advised that Harvey Norman is now providing a significant benefit to our members. ACA members based in Sydney can access staff pricing personally at Harvey Norman Auburn. They simply need to contact Glenn Cox prior to shopping on Members from outside this area or interstate can also attain staff pricing by following the procedure below: (1) Call Glenn Cox on or Matthew Tremble on with the model number of the product/s they wish to purchase, and which Harvey Norman store is your preferred pick-up location. (2) Harvey Norman Auburn will then arrange a contact at your local store and have it delivered there. ACA members are also entitled to attend the Auburn store s twice yearly sale events. These are held in June and December. Coaching Accreditation The Level 2 coaching fast-track accreditation program is now in its third year and continues to provide a quality means for our members to take a step forward in the coaching pathway. Pleasingly, all 14 applicants, consisting of both present and past players, nominated by the ACA this year were able to be offered a place in the course. All positions are fully funded by the ACA through the game development money sourced from the Player Payment Pool. A further four places are also offered to ACA members for the Level 3 course. These positions are also fully funded by the ACA. Other members can also be nominated and paid for by their State Association. Unfortunately places are more limited in Level 3 and many interested members were not successful this year in gaining an opportunity. Successful candidates this year selected by CA in conjunction with the States were Brad Haddin, Brad Hogg, Justin Langer and Ashley Noffke. ACA ONSIDE MAY

6 Strategic Plan ACA STRATEGIC PLAN Vision To Enhance our Members Pillars Game and Community In 2006 the ACA developed its first Strategic Plan to cover the period With the term of this plan having concluded, ACA Management embarked on developing on a new plan for the period The framework of the new plan is detailed below. In developing this plan we engaged an external consultant and conducted interviews with various key stakeholders from CA, State Associations, the ACA Executive and the general player group. In addition we used data gathered through member surveys, Delegates Conferences and squad meetings. In developing the new plan we used the same structure as the plan. The structure is as follows: Vision Where the ACA wants to be Pillars Key functions of the ACA business Goals Statements defining our focus for each Pillar Performance Targets Specific, measurable targets to meet the plan s Goals Strategies Actions we will undertake to achieve the Performance Targets Whilst our Vision continues to be to enhance our members lives professionally and personally, we have changed the focus of the Pillars of the plan. A comparison between the plan and the plan follows: Pillars Pillars Game Financial Career Welfare Time and Family Advocacy Strong ACA Game and Community Financial Member Services Member Representation Brand and Communications Strong ACA The Goals, Performance Targets and Strategies have been altered to reflect the changing focus of the ACA. Goals Performance Targets Key stakeholder in decision making processes affecting players Add value to the game and community Involvement in all CA & State Association policy & strategy development that affects members Contribute to CA & State Association achievement of their key performance targets of: participation, attendance and TV ratings Provide players with workplace conditions that will motivate them to remain committed to Australian cricket Develop & strengthen relationships with the game s key non-player stakeholders: CA, States, ICC, broadcasters, other media, sponsors, other Boards, Government, fans Play an active role in the development of all future playing opportunities involving Australian players Enhance Australian cricket s game development program by meeting 100% of all annual ACA game development KPIs Adopt a minimum of one national charity partner Develop a community program that utilises ACA members and is aligned with ACA values Maintain positions on the FICA Board and Executive 6 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010

7 12 Lives Professionally and Personally Financial Member Services Member Representation Brand and Communications Strong ACA Assist members to maximise their on and off field earnings Develop, support and reward current and future members and their families Effective and timely assistance and representation to all members Strong, respected and understood brand within sporting industry Sustainable organisation with the capacity to achieve our vision Ensure Australian players are the best remunerated team sportspeople in Australia Spend a minimum of 90% of ACA revenues on servicing the members over the term of this strategic plan Achieve all targets identified in National Career & Welfare strategy Negotiate ongoing improvements to all collectively negotiated agreements on behalf of members Complete brand & communications strategy by 30 September 2010 Increase non core funding ACA revenues by 10% pa Ensure State players are remunerated to a level that will attract talented athletes to cricket Ensure all key stakeholders contact ACA on all significant player issues at the earliest possible time Build the ACA brand with the general public & commercial sector Manage costs and investments responsibly Improve financial outcomes annually for Australian & State Women Cricketers Develop post-2012 National Career & Welfare strategy by 31 December 2010 Take all available steps to support the provision of a safe & secure cricket workplace for all ACA members Effective enforcement of all ACA negotiated agreements on behalf of members Build the ACA brand with current & potential future ACA members Determine optimum future ACA governance structure & processes Provision of the best retirement fund scheme for current players in Australian sport Educate & engage 100% of key stakeholders (players, coaches & administrators) in all aspects of player development Communicate the ACA cost / benefit equation to stakeholders & the general public Better utilise Advisory Board to assist ACA in meeting business objectives Increase member income from ACA commercial activities by 10% pa Introduce additional member benefit programs that deliver collective cost savings to members Deliver an international cricket ticket program to all past male & female Australian players Conduct a minimum of one research project per year on important member issues Effective representation of individual members in relation to issues with cricket authorities Implement improved database and ensure ACA team is capable of utilising effectively Design and activate new website including digital marketing strategy to attract and engage members & cricket fans Provide workplace conditions that will attract & retain skilled & committed staff Develop & implement group & individual development programs to allow ACA to achieve this strategic plan Increase survey rating of excellent in areas of ACA performance and member relationships by 10% pa across each ACA membership category Maximise player financial outcomes from ICC events and other cricket events involving ACA members Continue to have the funds necessary to service all Player Hardship Fund cases Maintain co-operation between player associations and a collective approach to improving the conditions for professional athletes in all sports Provide valued support services to families of current players Strengthen current commercial programs & relationships Increase investment in services for women & underage cricketers Increase ACA membership numbers to 950 including 100% of current Australian based players ACA ONSIDE MAY

8 Shelley Nitschke Simon Katich Michael Klinger John Hastings 2010 Allan Border Medal Shane Watson capped off a memorable year winning his first Allan Border Medal, after being elevated to an opening batsman role in both Test and One-Day cricket. Watson (125) won his first Allan Border medal by 35 votes ahead of Michael Clarke (90) and Mitchell Johnson (87). Watson was also awarded One-Day International Player of the Year polling 33 votes, ahead of Michael Hussey (25) and Clarke (21). Simon Katich took the award for Test Cricketer of the Year polling 11 votes edging out Johnson (10), with Clarke and Watson (9) tying for third. In other awards presented Michael Klinger took out State Player of the Year for the second year in a row, John Hastings was named Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year, and Shelley Nitschke was named Women s International Player of the Year. A highlight of the evening was the induction of two new members to the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame. Former Australian opener Bill Lawry and pace bowler Graham Garth McKenzie, were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the game. Hall of Fame Honour Board Inducted Fred Spofforth, John Blackham, Victor Trumper, Clarrie Grimmett, Bill Ponsford, Sir Donald Bradman, Bill O Reilly, Keith Miller, Ray Lindwall and Dennis Lillee Inducted Warwick Armstrong, Neil Harvey and Allan Border Inducted Bill Woodfull and Arthur Morris Inducted Stan McCabe and Greg Chappell Inducted Lindsay Hassett and Ian Chappell Inducted Hugh Trumble and Alan Davidson Inducted Clement Hill and Rod Marsh Inducted Monty Noble and Bob Simpson Inducted Charles Macartney and Richie Benaud Inducted George Giffen and Ian Healy Inducted Stephen Waugh Inducted William Lawry and Graham McKenzie Hall of Fame Inductees Allan Border Medal Honour Board Year / Allan Border Test Player ODI Player State Player Bradman Young Women s Award Medallist of the Year of the Year of the Year Cricketer of the Year Cricketer of the Year 2000 Glenn McGrath Glenn McGrath Shane Warne Darren Lehmann Brett Lee 2001 Stephen Waugh Colin Miller Glenn McGrath Darren Lehmann Nathan Bracken 2002 Matthew Hayden Matthew Hayden Ricky Ponting Darren Lehmann Shane Watson Karen Rolton 2003 Adam Gilchrist Ricky Ponting Adam Gilchrist Martin Love Nathan Hauritz Karen Rolton 2004 Ricky Ponting Ricky Ponting Adam Gilchrist Simon Katich Shaun Tait Cathryn Fitzpatrick 2005 Michael Clarke Damien Martyn Andrew Symonds Andy Bichel Mark Cosgrove Karen Rolton 2006 Ricky Ponting Shane Warne Michael Hussey Phil Jaques Dan Cullen Karen Rolton 2007 Ricky Ponting Ricky Ponting Ricky Ponting Chris Rogers Ben Hilfenhaus Lisa Sthalekar 2008 Brett Lee Brett Lee Matthew Hayden Ashley Noffke Luke Pomersbach Lisa Sthalekar 2009 Ricky Ponting & Michael Clarke Nathan Bracken Michael Klinger Phillip Hughes Shelley Nitschke Michael Clarke 2010 Shane Watson Simon Katich Shane Watson Michael Klinger John Hastings Shelley Nitschke 8 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010

9 ACA Masters Players Masters Wrap Up The ACA Masters have been busy out in the regions identifying talent, generating income for regional communities, conducting clinics and putting on some very entertaining matches of cricket. Imparja Cup February 2010 The ACA Masters took on an Indigenous All Stars side in a match to kick off the beginning of the 2010 Imparja Cup in Alice Springs in early February. Richard Chee Quee top scored for the Masters with 34 runs, including two sixes. Wayne Holdsworth also added a 28 run contribution to the 118 run total. Matthew Hayden opened the batting for the All Stars and was dropped by Len Pascoe early to then go on to add 20 runs to the board before Pascoe redeemed himself with an easy catch at square leg off the bowling of Jo Angel. Angel took an impressive three wickets for the ACA Masters off his four overs with Jason Gillespie, Mick Lewis and Corey Richards all finishing with two wickets. The Masters proved too strong for the All Stars taking the game by 27 runs. ACA Masters visit Orange and Shellharbour March 2010 The ACA thanks David Bayes, Aileen Cobern and team at Choice Hotels Australasia for their fantastic ongoing support of the ACA and the Masters program. Almost 1,000 locals cheered on their team in Shellharbour to witness a tightly fought Twenty20 game against the ACA Masters, with the match being won in the final over by the local side. The entertaining match was played in great spirits. The Masters put themselves into bat and set the locals a solid run chase of 154. Best with the bat for the Masters were; Matthew Elliott 45, Andy Bichel 40 and Corey Richards 28. Best with the ball for the Masters were; Greg Campbell 2 for 18 off 3 overs, local Steve Nikitaris 1 for 16 off 3 overs and Greg Matthews 1 for 27 off 4 overs. Unfortunately, just days earlier the match scheduled for Orange had to be abandoned due to rain. The Masters were disappointed to not be able to challenge the Orange Invitational XI side in what promised to be a great match, on a great wicket. ACA Masters visit Warrnambool and Horsham March 2010 Warrnambool local and South Australian wicketkeeper Tim Ludeman scored the ACA Masters first ever century to help the side to a solid win over the Warrnambool and District invitational Xl. With a score of 5 for 142, the ACA Masters cruised to a solid victory with the locals 8 for 96 at the end of their 20 overs. Best with the ball for the Masters; Jason Gillespie two wickets for 14 off two overs, Greg Campbell one wicket for 11 off two overs and Brad Hogg one wicket for 19 off three overs. Two days later in another rain affected match some 1,500 spectators braved the elements to watch an entertaining Twenty20 game in which the ACA Masters set a run chase the local talent could not match. First in to bat, the Masters were five for 195. The Horsham Invitational Xl in response were all out 9 for 142 at the end of 20 overs. Best with the bat for the Masters were; Liam Buchanan in his ACA Masters debut 89, Corey Richards 64 (not out) and Tim Ludeman 23. Best with the ball were; Jason Gillespie three for 17 off four overs, Brad Hogg three for s30 off four overs and Adam Crosthwaite, one wicket for 16 off two overs. ACA ONSIDE MAY

10 Overall International MVP Winner, Mitchell Johnson Overall Interstate MVP Winner, Steven Smith Overall Women s International MVP Winner, Shelley Nitschke Most Valuable Player Winners The Most Valuable Player (MVP) is a cumulative points system that ranks and rewards players for every run scored, every wicket taken and every catch held in addition to how well their team performs. The MVP combines all aspects of a player s game and performances to give the player a ranking in relation to their peers. The rankings then determines the MVP in each form of cricket, culminating in the Overall MVP. The calculation period for the International MVP commenced on 26 February 2009 with Australia s first Test in South Africa and concluded at the end of the Australian International summer on 23 February The men s domestic calculation period commenced on 11 October 2009 in line with the first Ford Ranger Cup match and concluded on 13 March The Women s International MVP commenced on 8 March 2009 and concluded on 23 February The WNCL and Women s Twenty20 commenced on 31 October 2009 and concluded on 18 January Mitchell Johnson has been named the Overall International MVP for the second year in a row. Johnson dominated the rankings from the beginning of the season starting with his outstanding form in South Africa; to not only claim the title of Overall MVP, but also the Test MVP for 2009/10. With points, Johnson took out the overall title by more than 40 points from Shane Watson ( points) with Ricky Ponting ( points) rounding out the top three. Johnson took out the Test MVP with a convincing 161 point win over second placed Peter Siddle (254.52) and Test Player of the Year Simon Katich with points. Watson with MVP points scored the most points in the Overall ODI MVP rankings. Ponting came in second with and Nathan Hauritz finished third with points. New South Welshman Steven Smith has won the Overall Interstate MVP, following some impressive performances in the final rounds of the Sheffield Shield competition. Smith narrowly took the award from John Hastings by just 3 MVP points. Hastings finished with points and Queensland s Ben Cutting rounded out the top three with points. Cutting (261.19) claimed the Sheffield Shield MVP ahead of Overall Interstate winner Smith (243.00) by over 18 points. Hastings, who features in the top three of all Interstate MVP rankings finished in third position with points. Shelley Nitschke has finished well ahead of Lisa Sthalekar to win the first Women s International MVP title. Nitschke played an outstanding Rose Bowl series to finish on top of the rankings with points, over 90 points ahead of the next ranked player. Sthalekar finished behind Nitschke with and Southern Stars young gun, Ellyse Perry third with a total of MVP points. Other winners include Brad Hodge (Ford Ranger Cup MVP), James Hopes (KFC Big Bash MVP), Kris Britt (WNCL MVP) and Sarah Elliott (Women s Twenty20 MVP). The 2010/11 MVP rankings have begun with the International Men s and Women s seasons kicking off with the recently completed tour of New Zealand. Visit com.au to view all up to date International MVP player rankings. Overall International MVP MVP MVP MVP MVP Points Test MVP Points ODI MVP Points Twenty20 MVP Points 1. Mitchell Johnson Mitchell Johnson Shane Watson David Warner Shane Watson Peter Siddle Ricky Ponting David Hussey Ricky Ponting Simon Katich Nathan Hauritz Shane Watson Nathan Hauritz Nathan Hauritz Mitchell Johnson Mitchell Johnson Michael Clarke Ricky Ponting Michael Hussey Shaun Tait ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010

11 Skin Cancer Checks The ACA conducted skin cancer checks for current and past players during February and March nationally for all interested members. The ACA once again ran its skin cancer program for the 2009/10 season. 293 members participated in the program and in addition to the skin cancer checks; all participants received an information booklet to illustrate the correct way to apply and protect themselves from the suns damaging rays. The ACA also offered vacant spots to State and CA staff. Skin Cancer Report This report is based on the past and present players who attended a Skin Patrol Early Detection clinic during 2010 across the states: The Program Each patient attended a 15 minute consultation which consisted of the following: Full Body Skin Check Digital Imaging if required Educational handouts on skin cancer and self checking One on One education specific attention to - Level of sun damage - Potential risk of developing melanoma - Sun screen use - General skin cancer facts The Results The Skin Patrol program enables the Medical Practitioner conducting the skin checks on the day to image any lesion displaying clinical attributes of skin cancer. These dermatoscopic images are then reviewed by our Dermatologist for diagnosis and recommendation. Dermatologist Concern The Dermatologist diagnosed 6.8% (20 patients) of all individuals seen as requiring further treatment or review of at least one lesion. The percentage of patients requiring further treatment or follow up within age group: 0.3% (1 patient) were under the age of % (2 patients) were aged between 31 and % (5 patients) were aged between 41 and % (12 patients) were aged 51 and over Incidents of potential melanoma These are pigmented lesions that the dermatologist has found to have suspicious of melanoma and should be excised or followed up to exclude melanoma. 1.4% (4 patients) were diagnosed by the dermatologist as having a lesion suspicious of melanoma & required further follow up 75% (3 patients) diagnosed with a lesion suspicious of melanoma had not had their skin checked in the past 12 months prior to the onsite clinic 25% (1 patient) diagnosed with a lesion suspicious of melanoma stated they were regularly exposed to UV radiation because of their occupation Skin Cancer Statistics in Australia Over 1000 people are treated for Skin Cancer everyday Over 1600 people die from Skin Cancer each year Sun exposure is the cause of about 99% non-melanoma skin cancer and 95% of melanoma in Australia The Cancer Council has found outdoor workers have a higher than average risk of skin cancer Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Skin cancers account for around 80% of all new cancers diagnosed each year in Australia. Each year Australians are four times more likely to develop a common skin cancer than any other form of cancer recommended. Skin Patrol Hot Tips: Never rely on sunscreen alone as no sunscreen provides complete protection. WEARING A BROAD BRIMMED HAT, SUNGLASSES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING IS ESSENTIAL Choose an SPF 30+ sunscreen that is broad spectrum and water resistant PLUS protect your lips with an SPF 30+ lip balm. Apply sunscreen generously to clean, dry skin 30 minutes to an hour before you go outdoors giving time for the product to adhere to the skin more effectively. Apply an even thick coat. Reapply every two hours or more often when sweating, swimming, exercising or toweling dry. Different skin types will respond differently to sunscreens. Always follow the application instructions and check the use by date on sunscreens and store below 30ºC. Skin Patrol s Simple Steps to Self Checking: Self check your skin every 3 months. Look at every spot on your body using good lighting and a full length mirror. Start with your face; work down the body, including your feet and between your toes and then turn around. What to look for: Any crusty, non healing sores. Any mole or freckle which changes over a period of weeks or months, particularly if it changes shape, colour or size. If you have any concerns consult doctor immediately. Annual skin checks with a GP or specialist are Overall Interstate MVP Sheffield Shield MVP Ford Ranger Cup MVP Twenty20 Big Bash MVP MVP Points MVP Points MVP Points MVP Points 1. Steven Smith Ben Cutting Brad Hodge James Hopes John Hastings John Hastings George Bailey Rana Naved Ben Cutting Steven Smith John Hastings Chris Simpson Andrew McDonald Andrew McDonald Travis Birt Tim Paine Daniel Christian Damien Wright Lee Carseldine Aaron Heal Overall Women s MVP MVP Women s MVP International MVP Points WNCL MVP Points Twenty20 MVP Points 1. Shelley Nitschke Kris Britt Sarah Elliott Lisa Sthalekar Shelley Nitschke Kris Britt Ellyse Perry Ellyse Perry Jenny Wallace Rene Farrell Lisa Sthalekar Leah Poulton Sarah Andrews Rene Farrell Shelley Nitschke ACA ONSIDE MAY

12 Elyse Villani Q&A Elyse Villani The ACA s National Manager of Player Development and Wellbeing, Ben Smith caught up with Vic Spirit player Elyse Villani to discuss her career and current University studies. Contacts Chief Executive Officer Paul Marsh pmarsh@auscricket.com.au Legal Counsel Michael Abrahams mabrahams@auscricket.com.au How do you rate our chances in the Twenty20 World Cup and who are the countries that we need to be careful of? The girls all feel as though we have something to prove after just missing out on the final last year in England against England. Our preparation has been fairly solid after a strong WNCL competition against each other and even more so our most recent squad camp in Brisbane where the standard was very high leading into the West Indies. Obviously the favourites will be England after winning the previous Twenty20 World Cup and New Zealand are always a contender whilst the West Indies will have the crowd behind them. What attracted you to cricket, where did it all start for you? I get asked this question a lot and the more I think about it, the more it doesn t really make sense as to why I stuck at it. I started playing in the backyard with my three older brothers but got smashed when I bowled and ducks when I batted, my brothers didn t hold back! I think as the youngest of four, I just wanted to do everything they did and because of that I joined the same local cricket club and was playing U/12 boys when I was 8. The thing I liked most about cricket was the thrill of scoring a run and how hard it was, it took me a long time to score more than 10 runs in a game. You are currently studying a Bachelor in Education how many years have you been studying for? I am currently in my second year of the four year course at Victoria University after taking a year off straight after year 12. At the end of my course I will be qualified to teach Primary and Secondary School with my two majors being P.E and ICT (computers). How difficult has it been for you to combine your study and playing career? I had a difficult time last year when I spent a month up at the AIS in Brisbane and then later went to England for the T20 world cup as I had a coordinator who didn t understand how I could combine both when I was missing lectures at Uni. Studying full time with the cricket commitments is tough as you want to do both to the best of your ability and finding the time to complete both at 100% is sometimes tough. I m learning as I go to seek help from the right people in order to make my study and cricket fit as well as possible. This year the ACA has been able to provide Education and Training Grants to Female players for the first time. What impact will this have on you and your fellow cricketers? It will have a significant impact as it will mean more opportunities are provided for further study, short courses etc. Because of ACA, the issue of cost can be eliminated or made a lot more affordable for female players which would be the main factor for most for not furthering their studies etc. As most of the girls work full time or study full time and combining training, games and travel commitments, it is a great feeling to have some financial support from ACA. Where do you see your studies taking you in the future? I see myself in a few years being out the front of my own Primary School classroom but I m not sure what year level I would be looking to teach. I can also see that teaching will not be something I will do for my whole working life and will look to guidance from the ACA as to other avenues I may be interested in taking, maybe the fire brigade or police force, I m not sure. If you re not playing cricket or studying what do you do to relax? When those times come along they are rare but certainly treasured! I like to catch up with my friends from school and Uni and read but the thing I love doing most is laying on the couch with a doona, a bit of chocolate and watch a DVD and not have to worry about moving for a few hours! Manager Events & Commercial Services Sarah Mitchell smitchell@auscricket.com.au Manager Cricket Operations & Membership Peter Roach proach@auscricket.com.au National Manager Player Development & Wellbeing Ben Smith bsmith@auscricket.com.au Office Manager Gabrielle Bortoli gbortoli@auscricket.com.au Administration Support Officer Sharn Best sbest@auscricket.com.au Administration Assistant Keira Wills admin@auscricket.com.au Australian Cricketers Association Inc. Level 1, 2 Ross Place South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: Fax: Web: info@auscricket.com.au Photos courtesy of Getty Images 12 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2010