How to Calculate Follow on Score in Cricket

What is a Follow On in Cricket?

A follow-on occurs in Test cricket when the team that batted first is dismissed for a score that is less than half of the total runs scored by the second team in their first innings. This decision is made by the captain of the team that batted first, and it allows the second team to bat again, aiming to score more runs than the original target set by the first team.

The follow-on is a strategic move that can be used to level the playing field when one team has a significant lead. It adds an extra layer of complexity to the match, as the follow-on team must not only score more runs than the original target but also aim to restrict the opposing team's score in their second innings.

How to Calculate Follow On Score

Calculating the follow-on score involves determining the target that the follow-on team must achieve to win the match. The formula for calculating the follow-on score is as follows:

The follow-on score represents the minimum number of runs the follow-on team must score to win the match. If the follow-on team scores more runs than the follow-on score, they will win the match. If they score fewer runs, the match will be drawn.

It's important to note that the follow-on score is not a fixed target, as the follow-on team can also aim to restrict the opposing team's score in their second innings. However, the follow-on score provides a benchmark for the minimum number of runs the follow-on team must score to win the match.

Example Calculation

Let's consider an example to illustrate how to calculate the follow-on score. Suppose Team A bats first and scores 250 runs in their first innings. Team B then bats and scores 300 runs in their first innings. Since Team A's score is less than half of Team B's score (150 runs), Team A is required to follow on.

To calculate the follow-on score, we use the formula:

Therefore, Team A must score at least 350 runs in their second innings to win the match. If Team A scores more than 350 runs, they will win the match. If they score fewer runs, the match will be drawn.

Key Points to Remember

• The follow-on is a strategic decision made by the team that batted first in Test cricket.
• The follow-on occurs when the team that batted first is dismissed for a score that is less than half of the total runs scored by the opposing team in their first innings.
• The follow-on score represents the minimum number of runs the follow-on team must score to win the match.
• The follow-on score is calculated using the formula: (First Innings Total × 2) - First Innings Score.
• The follow-on adds an extra layer of complexity to the match, as the follow-on team must not only score more runs than the original target but also aim to restrict the opposing team's score in their second innings.