Net Run Rate (NRR) Explained with an Example

What net run rate means in cricket, the exact formula, a worked example, and how it decides league tables and tournament qualification when teams finish level on points.

Net run rate (NRR) is a team's average runs scored per over minus its average runs conceded per over. It breaks ties between teams level on points in limited-overs tournaments.

The formula

NRR = (total runs scored divided by total overs faced) minus (total runs conceded divided by total overs bowled). A positive number means a team has, on average, scored faster than it has conceded.

A worked example

A team scores 160 in 20 overs and concedes 150 in 20 overs. Its scoring rate is 160 / 20 = 8.00 runs per over and its conceding rate is 150 / 20 = 7.50, so its NRR after that match is +0.50.

Across a tournament, the runs and overs from every match are added up first, and the formula is applied to the totals. NRR is not the average of each match's NRR.

Overs when a team is bowled out

When a team is all out before using its full quota, the overs counted for its innings are the full quota, not the overs actually faced. A side bowled out for 100 in 15 overs in a 20-over match is counted as scoring 100 in 20 overs.

Shortened and abandoned matches

In rain-affected matches decided by the DLS method, the original overs and the adjusted target are used in the calculation under the tournament's playing conditions. Abandoned matches without a result do not affect NRR.

Why it matters

League stages often finish with several teams on the same points. NRR is the usual first tie-breaker, so a heavy win can help a team's qualification chances even when it earns the same two points as a narrow win.

Frequently asked questions

How is net run rate calculated?

Divide total runs scored by total overs faced, divide total runs conceded by total overs bowled, and subtract the second figure from the first.

Is a negative net run rate bad?

It means a team has conceded runs faster than it has scored them. It is a disadvantage in tie-breaks but does not on its own decide a result.

Does net run rate apply in Test cricket?

No. NRR is used in limited-overs tournaments such as T20 and ODI leagues. Test matches use points tables based on results.