Every limited-overs chase starts with a target. In normal conditions it is simple: score one more than the opposition. When rain interrupts, it becomes more complex. This guide explains how cricket targets are set, including rain-affected matches, with our free Cricket Target Calculator.
The basic rule
Target = First innings total + 1
If Team A scores 165, Team B needs 166 to win. If Team B scores exactly 165, the match is tied.
Overs for the chase
Normally the chasing team has the same number of overs as the first innings quota (20 or 50), even if the first team was bowled out early.
Rain-reduced matches: DLS
When overs are lost, simply reducing the target in proportion to overs is unfair, because wickets in hand also matter. The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method uses “resources”, a combination of overs and wickets remaining, to set a revised target.
A simple illustration
| Situation | Effect on target |
|---|---|
| Overs lost before the chase starts | Target usually reduced, but not proportionally |
| Overs lost during the chase, few wickets down | Revised target relatively lower |
| Overs lost during the chase, many wickets down | Revised target relatively higher |
Official DLS tables and software are used in professional cricket; our tool gives estimates for casual use.
Par score
During a rain-affected chase, the “par score” is the score the chasing team needs at that point to be level if play stops. If they are ahead of par, they win.
Minimum overs
A result requires a minimum number of overs: commonly 5 overs per side in T20Is and 20 overs per side in ODIs.
Required run rate
Once the target is known, the asking rate is target minus score, divided by overs remaining. See the Required Run Rate Calculator.
For rain rules in more detail, read the DLS method explained. To estimate a first-innings total, try the Cricket Score Predictor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the target in cricket?
The first innings total plus one run.
What happens if scores are level?
The match is tied; some competitions use a Super Over.
How are rain-reduced targets set?
Using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method based on overs and wickets.