Bowling average tells you how many runs a bowler concedes for each wicket taken. It is the bowling equivalent of batting average, but here lower is better. This guide explains how to calculate bowling average with examples and shows how it links to economy rate and strike rate. Use our free Bowling Average Calculator for quick results.
The formula
Bowling average = Runs conceded ÷ Wickets taken
Worked examples
| Runs conceded | Wickets | Average |
|---|---|---|
| 600 | 25 | 24.00 |
| 1,150 | 40 | 28.75 |
| 320 | 20 | 16.00 |
Which runs count?
Runs off the bat, wides and no-balls are charged to the bowler. Byes and leg byes are not.
Linking the three bowling stats
Average = Economy rate × Strike rate ÷ 6
Example: a bowler with economy 4.8 and strike rate 30 has an average of 4.8 × 30 ÷ 6 = 24.0.
| Stat | Tool |
|---|---|
| Economy | Bowling Economy Calculator |
| Strike rate | Batting Strike Rate Calculator |
| Average | This calculator |
What is a good bowling average?
| Format | Excellent | Good |
|---|---|---|
| Test | Below 25 | 25 to 30 |
| ODI | Below 25 | 25 to 32 |
| T20 | Below 20 | 20 to 25 |
No wickets
If a bowler has taken no wickets, the average is undefined and usually shown as a dash.
Career vs season
Calculate career average from total runs and total wickets. Do not average season averages, as seasons have different numbers of wickets.
Reading averages carefully
Compare bowlers within the same format, era and conditions. Spinners in Asia and seamers in England face different conditions. Sample size also matters.
For comparisons, read bowling average vs economy. For batters, see Batting Average Calculator.
Club and school records
For local cricket, keep a simple sheet with overs, maidens, runs and wickets for each match. At the end of the season, add the totals and calculate your average, economy and strike rate together. Seeing all three side by side shows whether you are a wicket-taker, a run-saver or both, and helps captains decide when to use you.
Frequently asked questions
How is bowling average calculated?
Runs conceded divided by wickets taken.
Is a lower bowling average better?
Yes, it means fewer runs conceded per wicket.
How are average, economy and strike rate linked?
Average equals economy times strike rate divided by 6.