ODI Series Points System: How Limited-Overs Series Are Decided
ODI series use a straightforward win/loss points structure — understanding how it works helps you follow multi-match bilateral and tri-series competitions.
One Day International series are typically played over 3, 5, or 7 matches between two teams. The winner is the team that wins more matches. Unlike Test cricket, matches in ODI series very rarely end in a tie — the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method is used to produce a result in rain-affected games.
Standard Bilateral Series
In a bilateral ODI series, two teams simply play a set number of matches. The team that wins the majority wins the series. If matches are equal and the series cannot be separated (e.g., 2-2 after four matches with one washed out), the series is shared. There are no bonus points in standard bilateral series.
The ICC Men's ODI Super League
From 2020 to 2023, ICC ran a Super League qualifying competition for the ODI World Cup. Teams earned 10 points per win, 5 per tied or no-result match, and 0 per loss. Final standings determined direct qualification spots for the 2023 World Cup. The ICC CWC League system continues for lower-ranked nations.
Tie and No Result
A tie (identical scores after both innings) and a no result (weather or other interruption before a result can be determined) both award half the available points. In a regular bilateral series, a no-result match is sometimes replayed if a scheduled reserve day allows it.
Frequently asked questions
How is an ODI series decided?
The team winning the most matches in the series wins it. If wins are equal, the series is typically shared unless a final or extra match decides it.
What was the ICC ODI Super League?
A points-based league played from 2020 to 2023, where 13 teams earned points in bilateral series to qualify directly for the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.