Central Districts cricketers are to have the benefit of a new scholarship arrangement with Massey University in Palmerston North.

The scholarships were announced today when Central Districts (CD) chief executive Blair Furlong and Massey University's vice-chancellor James McWha signed an agreement which will establish five tuition scholarships for members of CD's Elite Cricketers' Academy who choose to study at Massey's Palmerston North campus.

The Academy will develop cricket players within the CD area to excel at the highest levels.

Furlong said that in order to encourage players to remain part of CD cricket, CD sought the assistance of the University to provide opportunities for their wider personal development.

CD coaching director Mark Greatbatch and University staff member and first-class umpire Robert Anderson designed the initiative.

In a joint statement, the pair said: "Elite sportsmen and women must strive for all-round development and look beyond that period in their lives when they are active. However, time and financial pressures during their sports-active years demand creative mechanisms to support their on-going education.

"These scholarships will do just that," they said.

A management committee of Greatbatch, Anderson, the rector of Palmerston North Boys' High School, Dave Syms and the principal of Massey University Rao Bhamidimarri will oversee the new sponsorship agreement.

Professor McWha said at the launch function today, "Commitment to the community is a hallmark of Massey University. This is an exciting development that reinforces our commitment to students in the central region of New Zealand."

© CricInfo