How To Calculate Follow on in Test Cricket
How To Calculate Follow on in Test Cricket
🥇 Step 1: Understand the Follow-On Rule
The follow-on is a rule where the team that batted first can ask the team that batted second to bat again immediately if they lead by a large margin after the first innings.
📊 Step 2: Know the Minimum Lead Required
The required lead depends on the length of the match:
| Match Duration | Minimum Lead to Enforce Follow-On |
|---|---|
| 5-day match (Test) | 200 runs |
| 3 or 4-day match | 150 runs |
| 2-day match | 100 runs |
| 1-day match | 75 runs |
🧮 Step 3: Apply the Formula
Use this formula:
Follow-on possible if:
(Team A's 1st innings score) - (Team B's 1st innings score) ≥ Required lead
🧾 Step 4: Example Calculation
Team A (1st innings): 450 runs
Team B (1st innings): 230 runs
Difference: 450 - 230 = 220 runs
Since 220 ≥ 200 (for a 5-day match), Team A can enforce the follow-on
🧠 Step 5: Strategic Decision
Even if eligible, the captain of Team A may choose not to enforce the follow-on based on pitch conditions, bowler fatigue, or match strategy.