When teams finish level on points in a tournament, net run rate (NRR) often decides who goes through. It can look mysterious on a points table, but the calculation is straightforward once you know two rules. This guide explains how net run rate is calculated with a full example, and our Net Run Rate (NRR) Calculator does the maths for you.
The formula
NRR = (Total runs scored ÷ Total overs faced) − (Total runs conceded ÷ Total overs bowled)
It is calculated across all matches in the tournament, not as an average of each match’s NRR.
Rule 1: overs and balls
Convert overs like 18.4 to 18 + 4/6 = 18.667 overs before dividing.
Rule 2: all out counts as full overs
If a team is bowled out before its quota, the full quota (for example 20 or 50 overs) is used in the calculation. This penalises being all out.
Worked example
A team plays three T20 matches:
| Match | Scored | Overs faced | Conceded | Overs bowled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 180 | 20 | 150 | 20 |
| 2 | 140 (all out in 18.2) | 20 (full quota) | 141 | 17.4 |
| 3 | 165 | 20 | 170 | 20 |
| Total | 485 | 60 | 461 | 57.667 |
- Scoring rate: 485 ÷ 60 = 8.083
- Conceding rate: 461 ÷ 57.667 = 7.994
- NRR = 8.083 − 7.994 = +0.089
Note in match 2 the opponent chased 141 in 17.4 overs, so the overs bowled are 17.667, not 20.
Positive and negative NRR
A positive NRR means the team scores faster than its opponents on average; negative means slower.
Abandoned matches
Matches with no result are usually excluded from NRR. Rain-reduced matches use the revised overs. Tournament rules can vary, so check the playing conditions.
Run rate basics
NRR is built from simple run rates; read how to calculate run rate and see the Run Rate Calculator.
For using NRR in qualification scenarios, read NRR qualification scenarios.
Frequently asked questions
How is net run rate calculated?
Total runs scored per over faced minus total runs conceded per over bowled.
What happens if a team is all out?
The full quota of overs is used for that innings.
Is NRR an average of match NRRs?
No, it uses tournament totals.