How Follow on Calculated in Test Cricket
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Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team
The follow-on decision in Test cricket is one of the most strategic and mathematically calculated aspects of the game. It determines which team bats first in the second innings, potentially altering the course of a match. This guide explains how the decision is made, the formulas involved, and the key factors that influence it.
How the Follow-On Decision is Made
The decision to impose a follow-on is based on the batting averages of the two teams in the first innings. The team with the higher batting average is required to bat again in the second innings, while the team with the lower average is given a rest. This system was introduced in 1992 to reduce the number of days in Test matches.
Follow-On Decision Formula
If Team A's batting average in the first innings is higher than Team B's, Team B is required to follow on.
Batting Average = Total Runs Scored / Number of Wickets Lost
The decision is made by the match referee after the first innings, based on the batting averages of both teams. The team with the higher average is given the follow-on, while the other team bats first in the second innings.
Batting Average Formula
The batting average is a crucial metric in determining the follow-on decision. It is calculated using the following formula:
Batting Average Formula
Batting Average = Total Runs Scored / Number of Wickets Lost
Example: If a team scores 300 runs and loses 5 wickets, their batting average is 300 / 5 = 60.
The batting average is calculated for each team after the first innings. The team with the higher average is required to follow on in the second innings.
Innings Requirements
For a team to be eligible for the follow-on, they must have completed at least one full innings in the first innings. If a team is all out in their first innings, they cannot be given the follow-on.
Key Requirement
A team must have batted for at least one full innings to be considered for the follow-on. If they are all out in their first innings, they cannot be given the follow-on.
This requirement ensures that the follow-on is only imposed on teams that have had a fair opportunity to bat in the first innings.
Key Factors Influencing the Decision
Several factors influence the decision to impose a follow-on, including:
- Batting Performance: The team's batting performance in the first innings is the primary factor. A strong batting performance can lead to a higher batting average and a follow-on.
- Wicket Loss: The number of wickets lost is crucial. Fewer wickets lost result in a higher batting average.
- Match Situation: The overall match situation, including the number of days remaining, can influence the decision.
- Team Strategy: Teams may choose to bat more aggressively or defensively, which can affect their batting average.
The follow-on decision is a complex calculation that takes into account these factors to determine the fairest outcome for both teams.
Historical Examples
Several historical matches have seen the follow-on decision change the course of the game. For example:
| Match | Year | Follow-On Decision | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia vs England | 1992 | England imposed follow-on | Australia won by 10 wickets |
| India vs Pakistan | 2002 | Pakistan imposed follow-on | India won by 10 wickets |
| South Africa vs England | 2004 | England imposed follow-on | South Africa won by 10 wickets |
These examples illustrate how the follow-on decision can significantly impact the outcome of a Test match.
FAQ
What is the follow-on in Test cricket?
The follow-on is a decision in Test cricket where the team with the higher batting average in the first innings is required to bat again in the second innings, while the other team bats first.
How is the follow-on decision calculated?
The follow-on decision is based on the batting averages of both teams in the first innings. The team with the higher average is required to follow on.
What is the batting average formula?
Batting average is calculated as Total Runs Scored divided by Number of Wickets Lost.
Can a team be all out and still be given the follow-on?
No, a team must have completed at least one full innings to be eligible for the follow-on. If they are all out in their first innings, they cannot be given the follow-on.
What factors influence the follow-on decision?
Key factors include batting performance, wicket loss, match situation, and team strategy.