Abstract
A method is described for setting revised target scores for the team batting second when a limited-overs cricket match has been forcibly shortened after it has commenced. It is designed so that neither team benefits or suffers from the shortening of the game and so is totally fair to both. It is easy to apply, requring nothing more than a single table of numbers and a pocket calculator, and is capable of dealing with any number of interruptions at any stage of either or both innings.
The method is based on a simple model involving a two-factor relationship giving the number of runs which can be scored on average in the remainder of an innings as a function of the number of overs remaining and the number of wickets fallen. It is shown how the relationship enables the target score in an interrupted match to be recalculated to reflect the relative run scoring resources available to the two teams, that is overs and wickets in combination. The method was used in several international and domestic one-day competitions and tournaments in 1997.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Duckworth, F., Lewis, A. A fair method for resetting the target in interrupted one-day cricket matches. J Oper Res Soc 49, 220–227 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.jors.2600524
Received:
Accepted:
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.jors.2600524