Strike rate is a key measure of how quickly a batter scores, and, in a different sense, how often a bowler takes wickets. With the rise of T20 cricket, batting strike rate has become one of the most discussed statistics in the game. This guide explains how to calculate strike rate for both batters and bowlers, with our free Batting Strike Rate Calculator.
Batting strike rate
Batting strike rate = Runs scored ÷ Balls faced × 100
It shows how many runs a batter would score from 100 balls at the same pace.
Examples
| Runs | Balls | Strike rate |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 40 | 125.0 |
| 75 | 50 | 150.0 |
| 100 | 120 | 83.3 |
| 30 | 15 | 200.0 |
What counts as balls faced?
Legal deliveries faced count. Wides do not count as balls faced; no-balls do count as balls faced by the batter in standard scoring.
Bowling strike rate
Bowling strike rate = Balls bowled ÷ Wickets taken
It shows how many balls a bowler needs, on average, for each wicket. Lower is better.
Example: 1,200 balls and 50 wickets give a bowling strike rate of 24, a wicket every four overs.
What is a good strike rate?
| Format | Good batting SR | Good bowling SR |
|---|---|---|
| Test | 50 to 60+ | Below 60 |
| ODI | 85 to 100+ | Below 35 |
| T20 | 130 to 150+ | Below 20 |
These are broad guides; roles matter. An opener in Tests may have a lower strike rate but bat for long periods.
Strike rate and average together
A batter averaging 40 with a strike rate of 140 is extremely valuable in T20s. Combine strike rate with the Batting Average Calculator to see the full picture. For bowlers, combine bowling strike rate with average and economy; see the Bowling Economy Calculator.
Career strike rate
For a career, add all runs and all balls, then apply the formula. Do not average the strike rates of individual innings.
For more on comparing batters, read strike rate vs average. To convert strike rate into runs per over, see run rate vs strike rate.
Frequently asked questions
How is batting strike rate calculated?
Runs scored divided by balls faced, multiplied by 100.
What is bowling strike rate?
Balls bowled per wicket taken; lower is better.
Do wides count as balls faced?
No, wides are not counted as balls faced by the batter.