Run rate is the most watched number in limited-overs cricket. It tells you how fast a team is scoring, and commentators quote it after almost every over. The formula is simple, but one common mistake with overs catches many people. This guide shows how to calculate run rate correctly, with our free Run Rate Calculator for instant results.
The formula
Run rate = Runs scored ÷ Overs faced
It gives runs per over (RPO).
The overs trap
In cricket notation, 42.3 overs means 42 overs and 3 balls, not 42.3 decimal overs. Since an over has 6 balls:
42.3 overs = 42 + 3/6 = 42.5 overs
| Notation | Balls | Decimal overs |
|---|---|---|
| 10.1 | 61 | 10.167 |
| 10.2 | 62 | 10.333 |
| 10.3 | 63 | 10.5 |
| 10.4 | 64 | 10.667 |
| 10.5 | 65 | 10.833 |
Worked examples
- 245 runs in 42.3 overs: 245 ÷ 42.5 = 5.76 runs per over.
- 180 runs in 20 overs: 180 ÷ 20 = 9.00.
- 96 runs in 12.4 overs: 12.4 = 12.667 overs, so 96 ÷ 12.667 = 7.58.
If you wrongly used 12.4 as a decimal, you would get 7.74, a noticeable error.
Using balls instead
Run rate = Runs ÷ Balls × 6
For example, 96 runs from 76 balls: 96 ÷ 76 × 6 = 7.58.
Typical run rates
| Format | Typical good run rate |
|---|---|
| Test | 3 to 4 |
| ODI | 5.5 to 6.5 |
| T20 | 8 to 9 or more |
These are general ranges; pitch, conditions and era matter.
Current vs required run rate
The current run rate shows scoring so far. In a chase, compare it with the required run rate; see the Required Run Rate Calculator and read run rate vs strike rate.
Run rate and tournaments
Over a tournament, team run rates combine into net run rate, used to break ties in points tables. Use the Net Run Rate (NRR) Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is run rate in cricket?
The average number of runs scored per over.
How do I convert 42.3 overs into decimals?
42 overs and 3 balls equals 42.5 overs.
What is a good T20 run rate?
Around 8 to 9 or more runs per over.