How to Read a Cricket Scoreboard: All the Numbers Explained
For newcomers to cricket, the scoreboard can seem cryptic. This guide decodes every element — runs, wickets, overs, extras, fall of wickets — and explains what each number means in context.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'all out' mean on a scoreboard?
'All out' means all 10 wickets have fallen and the innings is complete. A score displayed as '183 all out' (or '183 ao') means the team scored 183 runs before losing all 10 wickets. Innings can also end by declaration (batting captain chooses to end the innings voluntarily, usually in Test cricket to give the bowling side enough time to bowl the opposition out) — in this case the score shows 'd' for declared: '350/5d'.
What is DNB on a batting scorecard?
'DNB' stands for 'Did Not Bat' — it appears next to a player's name on the batting scorecard when they were not called upon to bat because the innings ended before they could. In Test cricket with 11 players, if the top 10 batsmen score enough or the innings is declared, the 11th player might not face a ball and is listed as DNB. In practice, DNB is most common for specialist bowlers who bat at 11 and are not needed if the team is all out at 9 or 10 wickets.