What is CBIT and Why It Matters in FPL 2025/26?
29th July 2025
The 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season has introduced an exciting new twist to the scoring system, and defensive contributions now officially matter more than ever.
For years, defenders and defensive midfielders have been overlooked by FPL managers, often selected only for clean sheets or the occasional attacking return. But this year, the Premier League is shaking things up by rewarding defensive actions with points, specifically through a stat known as CBIT.
Let’s break it all down.
What is CBIT?
CBIT stands for:
- Clearances
- Blocks
- Interceptions
- Tackles
These are the core defensive metrics used to evaluate a player’s impact when their team doesn’t have the ball. And now in FPL, defenders who register 10 or more CBIT actions in a single match will receive 2 extra points.
Midfielders and Forwards: CBITR
It doesn’t stop there; midfielders and forwards are also eligible, but under a slightly stricter rule. Their stat is known as CBITR (same actions as CBIT, plus ball recoveries). To earn 2 points, they need 12 or more combined defensive actions in a game.
This change rewards defensive midfielders and ball-winning attackers, giving rise to new tactical strategies for FPL managers.
Which Players Are Best for CBIT?
Using exclusive data from Statz.ai, we’ve ranked the top FPL defenders based on CBIT per 90 minutes and hit rate (how often they reach the 10+ threshold):
James Tarkowski is the standout here, hitting the CBIT threshold in nearly 70% of his matches. If you’re looking for reliable defensive points, centre-backs like him and Murillo offer amazing value this season.
What Does This Mean for FPL Strategy?
Why It Matters:
- Defenders like Tarkowski, Kilman, and Murillo suddenly become relevant.
- Centre-backs who were once rotation-fillers could now become consistent point earners.
- Mid-priced defenders with high CBIT output can offer better ROI than attacking wing-backs who depend on assists or clean sheets.
Pro Tip:
Use the CBIT hit rate % as your guide. The higher the rate, the more likely that player consistently delivers those 2 bonus points.
Key Takeaways for FPL 2025/26
- New Bonus Points:
- Defenders earn +2 pts for 10+ CBIT
- Midfielders/forwards earn +2 pts for 12+ CBIRT
- Defenders earn +2 pts for 10+ CBIT
- Emerging Assets:
- Tarkowski, Murillo, Lacroix, and Branthwaite are among the best picks for bonus points.
- Tarkowski, Murillo, Lacroix, and Branthwaite are among the best picks for bonus points.
- Use Statz.ai:
- Get the latest defensive metrics, hit rates, and FPL tools to stay ahead of your mini-league rivals.
- Get the latest defensive metrics, hit rates, and FPL tools to stay ahead of your mini-league rivals.
Looking for More Data?
All this analysis and more is available at Statz.ai, your go-to site for data-driven FPL decision-making. We track CBIT, xPoints, player comparison tools, and more.
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