For a simple set of completed matches, net run rate is aggregate runs per applicable over scored minus aggregate runs per applicable over conceded. Add the runs and overs first. Do not average each match's net run rate when the denominators differ.
Two hypothetical matches
Assume no interruptions, no all-out innings, and no special adjustments. Both matches belong to the same competition sample.
| Match | Runs for / overs | Runs against / overs |
|---|---|---|
| A | 160 / 20 | 150 / 20 |
| B | 101 / 10 | 100 / 20 |
In match B, the team completes its chase after ten overs. Its scoring rate for that innings uses those ten overs in this uncomplicated example.
Calculate from the combined columns
- Total runs scored: 160 + 101 = 261; overs used: 20 + 10 = 30.
- Aggregate scoring rate: 261 / 30 = 8.70.
- Total runs conceded: 150 + 100 = 250; opposing overs: 20 + 20 = 40.
- Aggregate conceding rate: 250 / 40 = 6.25.
- Net run rate: 8.70 minus 6.25 = +2.45.
The match-level differences are +0.50 and +5.10. Their simple average is +2.80, not +2.45. Averaging them gave the ten-over scoring innings the same weight as the twenty-over scoring innings.
All-out innings need the competition rule
Under the ICC-style NRR rule, an innings that is all out uses its full allocated quota in the NRR denominator. For example, if the allocation is 20 overs and the team is all out earlier, substituting only the overs actually faced would give the wrong NRR denominator.
This is not the same as ordinary current run rate. Keep actual balls faced and the overs applicable to the standings calculation as separate fields.
Do not improvise special adjustments
Interrupted matches, revised targets, no-results and tie-break innings require the current competition's playing conditions. The worked example does not calculate those cases. Retain a reason for every adjusted denominator and exclude or include matches only as the rules specify.
If recorded overs include a partial over, convert to valid balls before aggregation. Retain full precision until the final displayed difference. A positive NRR is a rate difference, not a win probability. Other cricket calculation guides.