Cricket: Search starts for NZ's biggest hitter

Umpire Billy Bowden showcases his new signal during the Big Hits competition. Photo / Supplied

New Zealand Cricket started their search for the country's biggest hitter on Monday with the new Big Hits competition.

Top batsmen from the State Twenty20 Series went head to head at Eden Park, with former Black Caps bowler Ian Butler of Otago coming out on a top with a massive blow of 95.98m.

The event runs for three weeks and culminates in Wellington later this month where six members of the public will go up against Butler and a player from the Black Caps.

International umpire Billy Bowden has developed a special signal for the campaign, used for every shot over 70m.

Regional public finals held during selected State Twenty20 matches will whittle down backyard batsmen and one representative from each region will be selected for the final.

- NZ HERALD STAFF