Cricket Bowling Figures Explained
How to read cricket bowling figures: what 4-35 means, how overs are expressed with dots, and what makes a set of bowling figures outstanding at each level of cricket.
Cricket bowling figures appear on every scorecard in the format Wickets–Runs (e.g. 4–35) or in detailed scorecards as Overs–Maidens–Runs–Wickets (e.g. 12.3–2–35–4). Understanding how to read these figures allows you to immediately understand a bowler's contribution to any innings.
Reading Basic Bowling Figures
The primary format is Wickets–Runs. A figure of 4–35 means the bowler took 4 wickets while conceding 35 runs. A figure of 0–42 means the bowler took no wickets and gave away 42 runs. A figure of 5–21 is exceptional — 5 wickets taken at a cost of only 21 runs.
Full Analysis Format
| Column | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| O | Overs bowled (full overs) | 12.3 = 12 overs + 3 balls |
| M | Maiden overs | 2 = 2 overs of zero runs |
| R | Runs conceded | 35 = 35 runs given away |
| W | Wickets taken | 4 = 4 wickets |
Fractional Overs
When a bowler does not complete their final over, the figure is expressed with a decimal or dot notation. 12.3 means 12 complete overs plus 3 additional balls. 8.1 means 8 overs and 1 ball. This fractional notation allows precise calculation of economy rate: overs bowled in decimal = full overs + (remaining balls ÷ 6).
Benchmarks by Format
| Format | Good Figure | Outstanding Figure |
|---|---|---|
| Test (Innings) | 3–60 or better | 5–30 or a five-wicket haul under 60 |
| ODI (50 overs) | 3–40 or better | 5–25 or fewer |
| T20 (20 overs) | 3–20 or better with economy under 8 | 4–15 or a hat-trick |
Frequently asked questions
What does 10.4-2-35-4 mean in cricket?
It means the bowler bowled 10 overs and 4 balls (10.4 overs), of which 2 were maiden overs. They conceded 35 runs and took 4 wickets. Their economy rate is approximately 3.36 runs per over.
What is a five-wicket haul in cricket?
A five-wicket haul (also called a 'fifer') is when a bowler takes five or more wickets in a single innings. It is the bowling equivalent of a batting century and is celebrated as one of the highest individual achievements in cricket. Figures of 5-anything are noted with special significance in scorecards.