How Is The Follow on in Cricket Calculated
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Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team
The follow-on in cricket is a strategic decision made by the umpires to ensure a fair and competitive match, especially when one team has a significant lead in runs. This article explains how the follow-on is calculated, including the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (D/L) method and the key factors that influence the decision.
What Is the Follow On in Cricket?
The follow-on is a rule in cricket where the team that is batting second in the first innings is required to bat again in the second innings. This happens when the team batting first scores more runs than the team batting second in the first innings.
The follow-on is introduced to maintain fairness and competitiveness in the match. It ensures that both teams have an equal opportunity to win, especially when one team has a significant lead.
How Is the Follow On Calculated?
The decision to impose the follow-on is based on several factors, primarily the difference in runs between the two teams after the first innings. The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (D/L) method is the most commonly used system to calculate the follow-on in limited-overs cricket.
The D/L method adjusts the target score based on the number of overs lost due to rain or other interruptions. It ensures that the follow-on team is given a fair target that accounts for the reduced number of overs available.
The D/L Method Explained
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (D/L) method is a mathematical model used to calculate the revised target score in limited-overs cricket when the match is affected by weather or other interruptions. The method takes into account the number of overs lost and the resources available to the batting team.
D/L Formula
The revised target score (R) is calculated using the following formula:
R = (P / (R1 - O)) × (R2 - O)
Where:
- P = Par score (the score required to win from the remaining overs)
- R1 = Total overs in the innings
- R2 = Overs remaining after the interruption
- O = Overs lost due to interruption
The D/L method ensures that the follow-on team is given a fair target that accounts for the reduced number of overs available. It is widely used in international cricket to maintain fairness and competitiveness.
Factors Affecting the Follow On Decision
Several factors influence the decision to impose the follow-on, including:
- Run Difference: The primary factor is the difference in runs between the two teams after the first innings. A significant lead may prompt the follow-on.
- Match Situation: The stage of the match, such as the number of overs bowled, can influence the decision.
- Team Strengths: The batting and bowling strengths of the teams can also play a role in the decision.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions can lead to interruptions and affect the follow-on decision.
The umpires and match officials consider these factors to ensure a fair and competitive match.
Example Calculation
Let's consider an example where Team A scores 300 runs in their first innings, and Team B scores 250 runs in their first innings. The follow-on is imposed on Team B.
Using the D/L method, the revised target score is calculated based on the number of overs lost and the resources available to Team B. The exact calculation depends on the specific match situation and the D/L tables.
Example Scenario
If Team B loses 10 overs due to rain, the revised target score may be calculated as follows:
R = (P / (R1 - O)) × (R2 - O)
Where:
- P = 250 (Team B's first innings score)
- R1 = 50 (Total overs in the innings)
- R2 = 40 (Overs remaining after interruption)
- O = 10 (Overs lost due to interruption)
The revised target score (R) would be calculated as:
R = (250 / (50 - 10)) × (40 - 10) = (250 / 40) × 30 = 6.25 × 30 = 187.5
Therefore, Team B would need to score 188 runs to win the match.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the follow-on in cricket?
The follow-on is introduced to ensure fairness and competitiveness in the match, especially when one team has a significant lead. It gives the team batting second an opportunity to win the match.
How is the D/L method used in cricket?
The D/L method is used to calculate the revised target score in limited-overs cricket when the match is affected by weather or other interruptions. It ensures that the follow-on team is given a fair target that accounts for the reduced number of overs available.
What factors influence the follow-on decision?
The follow-on decision is influenced by several factors, including the run difference between the two teams, the match situation, team strengths, and weather conditions.
How is the revised target score calculated using the D/L method?
The revised target score is calculated using the D/L formula, which takes into account the number of overs lost and the resources available to the batting team. The exact calculation depends on the specific match situation and the D/L tables.
Can the follow-on be imposed in all types of cricket matches?
The follow-on is primarily used in limited-overs cricket, such as One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 (T20) matches. It is not commonly used in Test matches.