Economy rate shows how many runs a bowler concedes per over. In limited-overs cricket, an economical spell can win a match even without wickets. This guide explains how to calculate economy rate correctly, including the overs and extras rules, with our free Bowling Economy Calculator.
The formula
Economy rate = Runs conceded ÷ Overs bowled
Converting overs
As with run rate, 3.4 overs means 3 overs and 4 balls = 3.667 overs.
Worked examples
| Figures | Calculation | Economy |
|---|---|---|
| 4-0-28-2 | 28 ÷ 4 | 7.00 |
| 10-1-45-3 | 45 ÷ 10 | 4.50 |
| 3.4-0-33-1 | 33 ÷ 3.667 | 9.00 |
| 8-0-52-0 | 52 ÷ 8 | 6.50 |
In bowling figures “4-0-28-2”, the numbers mean overs, maidens, runs and wickets.
What counts against the bowler?
- Runs off the bat: yes
- Wides and no-balls: yes, charged to the bowler
- Byes and leg byes: no, they are not charged to the bowler
Good economy rates
| Format | Excellent | Good |
|---|---|---|
| Test | Below 2.5 | 2.5 to 3.2 |
| ODI | Below 4.5 | 4.5 to 5.5 |
| T20 | Below 7 | 7 to 8 |
Phases matter: death-overs bowlers usually have higher economy than powerplay or middle-overs specialists.
Economy vs average vs strike rate
| Stat | Formula | Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Runs ÷ Overs | Run control |
| Average | Runs ÷ Wickets | Cost per wicket |
| Strike rate | Balls ÷ Wickets | Wicket frequency |
All three are linked: Average = Economy × Strike rate ÷ 6. See the Bowling Average Calculator.
Economy and match impact
In a T20, a four-over spell at 6.0 instead of 9.0 saves 12 runs, often the margin of victory.
For bowling plans, read tips to improve bowling economy. Compare with team scoring via the Run Rate Calculator.
Maiden overs
A maiden over is an over with no runs charged to the bowler. Maidens are rare in T20 cricket but common in Tests, and they lower economy sharply.
Frequently asked questions
How is economy rate calculated?
Runs conceded divided by overs bowled.
Are wides counted in economy?
Yes, wides and no-balls are charged to the bowler.
Do byes count against the bowler?
No, byes and leg byes are not charged to the bowler.