A cricket scorecard records how an innings unfolded. Batting figures commonly show runs, balls faced, boundaries and dismissal method. A batter who is not out has not been dismissed when the innings ends, while a retired hurt entry has a different meaning from an ordinary dismissal.
Strike rate compares runs scored with balls faced, while a bowler's economy rate shows runs conceded per over. Bowling figures also list wickets and overs. These numbers need context: format, innings length, pitch, match situation and the bowler's role can all affect whether a figure represents a strong performance.
Extras are runs not credited to a batter, including wides, no-balls, byes and leg-byes. They still contribute to the team total, but the rules determine whether the delivery counts as a ball and whether the bowler is charged with the runs.
To interpret a scorecard, combine individual figures with partnerships, fall of wickets and the result. A quick cameo, a long defensive innings and a low-scoring bowling spell may each be valuable in different situations, so avoid judging a performance from one statistic alone.
