When teams finish level on points in a tournament, net run rate (NRR) often decides who goes through. It looks complicated on TV graphics, but the idea is simple: how fast you score, minus how fast your opponents score against you.
In this article
The NRR formula
NRR = (total runs scored ÷ total overs faced) − (total runs conceded ÷ total overs bowled)
Both halves are added up across all of a team’s matches in the tournament, not averaged match by match.
Converting overs correctly
Cricket writes overs as “overs.balls”. So 18.2 overs means 18 overs and 2 balls — that is 18 + 2/6 = 18.333 overs, not 18.2. Getting this wrong is the most common NRR mistake.
The all-out rule
Under standard ICC playing conditions, if a team is bowled out before its overs are used up, it is treated as having faced its full quota of overs for NRR. Being bowled out for 120 in 17.3 overs of a T20 counts as 120 runs in 20 overs.
Worked example
Team A plays three T20 matches:
| Match | Scored | Overs faced | Conceded | Overs bowled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 180 | 20 | 160 | 20 |
| 2 | 145 | 18.2 | 142 | 20 |
| 3 | 120 (all out) | 17.3 → counts as 20 | 124 | 15.1 |
After the first two matches, Team A has scored 325 runs in 38.333 overs (8.478 per over) and conceded 302 runs in 40 overs (7.550 per over). NRR = +0.928.
After the third match, the totals become 445 runs in 58.333 overs (7.629) and 426 runs in 55.167 overs (7.722). NRR drops to −0.093. One heavy defeat is enough to turn a healthy NRR negative.
Try it yourself
Our free Net Run Rate Calculator is pre-filled with this exact example — change any number and see NRR update instantly. For a single chase, use the Run Rate Calculator.
FAQ
Does a no-result affect NRR?
Generally, matches without a result are left out of NRR, but always check the specific tournament’s playing conditions.
What about DLS-shortened matches?
Revised targets and overs are used; tournament rules explain exactly which figures apply.
