How it works
A projected score assumes the batting side keeps scoring at a steady rate for the rest of the innings. The simplest version uses the current run rate: runs so far divided by overs so far.
Broadcasters usually show a row of projections at different rates, because the current rate early in an innings is a poor guide to what comes later. This calculator does the same: the current rate first, then a range of rates suited to the format.
Projections do not know about wickets in hand or the batting side’s plans. A team 86 for 1 and a team 86 for 6 get the same projection, even though their likely totals are very different.
The formula
current rate = runs ÷ (balls bowled ÷ 6)
overs left = (balls in innings − balls bowled) ÷ 6
projected total = runs + rate × overs leftWorked example
A T20 team has 86 runs after 9.3 overs.
- 9.3 overs is 57 balls, or 9.5 overs.
- Current rate: 86 ÷ 9.5 = 9.05 an over.
- Overs left: (120 − 57) ÷ 6 = 10.5.
- Projected total: 86 + 9.05 × 10.5 = 181.
At 8 an over from here the projection is 170, and at 10 an over it is 191.
Questions
Why do TV projections sometimes differ?
Some broadcasters show only the current rate and a few fixed rates, and some round differently. The method is the same: runs so far plus a rate multiplied by the overs remaining.
Are projections accurate?
They are a rough guide. T20 innings usually speed up at the end, and wickets slow teams down, so the final total often lands away from the early projection. Projections get more reliable as the innings goes on.
What is a par score?
A par score is a judgment about what total is competitive on a given ground, pitch and day. It is not calculated from the current innings, so it is different from a projection.
How do I read 9.3 overs?
9 overs and 3 balls, or 57 balls. As a decimal that is 9.5 overs, because each ball is a sixth of an over.
Add this calculator to your site
Cricket club, league or blog? You can put this calculator on your own site for free. Copy the code below into your page’s HTML. The calculator updates itself whenever we improve it.
The short script lets the frame grow to fit the calculator on your page. Please keep the credit line underneath it.