Bowling Average Calculator
Bowling average is the number of runs conceded for each wicket taken. Unlike batting, a lower bowling average is better.
Formula
Bowling Average = Runs Conceded / Wickets Taken
Example
- A bowler concedes 450 runs and takes 18 wickets.
- 450 / 18 = 25.00 runs per wicket.
Frequently asked questions
Is a high or a low bowling average better?
Lower is better. It means the bowler gives away fewer runs for each wicket taken, which is the opposite of batting average where higher is better.
What if the bowler has taken no wickets?
The average is undefined, because the runs would be divided by zero. Scorecards show a dash. The runs conceded are still recorded.
What is a bowling average?
A bowling average is the number of runs a bowler concedes for each wicket they take. It measures how cheaply a bowler takes wickets, so a lower average is better. It is usually read alongside the economy rate, which is runs per over, and the bowling strike rate, which is balls per wicket.
How to use the bowling average calculator
- Enter the runs the bowler has conceded.
- Enter the wickets they have taken.
- Press Calculate to see the runs conceded per wicket. Lower is better.
Worked examples
A season’s bowling
450 runs for 18 wickets: 450 ÷ 18 = 25.00 runs per wicket.
No wickets yet
Without a wicket, a bowling average cannot be calculated, so it is shown as not applicable.
Average and strike rate together
If the same bowler bowled 540 balls, their bowling strike rate is 540 ÷ 18 = 30.0 balls per wicket.
Common mistakes
- Crediting run-outs to the bowler. Run-outs are not bowling wickets.
- Confusing average with economy. The average is runs per wicket; the economy rate is runs per over.
- Comparing averages across formats without context. Wickets cost more in T20 cricket than in Tests.