Bowling Average in Cricket: The Core Bowling Statistic
Bowling average is the number of runs a bowler concedes per wicket taken. Learn the formula, what makes a good bowling average, and how it compares across formats and eras.
What Is Bowling Average?
Bowling average is one of cricket's primary bowling statistics. It measures the average number of runs a bowler concedes for each wicket they take. A lower bowling average indicates a more effective bowler — they take wickets without conceding many runs.
The Formula
Bowling Average = Total Runs Conceded ÷ Total Wickets Taken. A bowler who concedes 2,000 runs and takes 80 wickets has a bowling average of 25.0.
What Is a Good Bowling Average?
| Average Range | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Below 20 | Exceptional — among the game's all-time greats |
| 20–25 | Excellent — top international bowler |
| 25–30 | Very good — reliable international quality |
| 30–35 | Good — solid contributor |
| 35–40 | Average — typically a part-time or backup bowler |
| Above 40 | Below average for a frontline bowler |
Bowling Average vs Economy Rate
Bowling average measures wicket cost; economy rate measures run cost per over. A bowler can have a good average but poor economy (takes wickets but expensive in between) or good economy but poor average (tight bowling without taking wickets). The combination of both metrics provides a complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
Does bowling average include run outs?
No. Run outs are not credited to the bowler's wicket tally, so they do not lower the bowling average. Only dismissals credited to the bowler — caught, bowled, LBW, stumped, hit wicket — count.
Can a bowling average be calculated in a single match?
Yes. Match bowling figures (e.g. 3 wickets for 45 runs) give a bowling average of 15 for that match. Career averages are calculated across all matches in which the bowler has taken wickets.