Scoring is an integral part of a cricket match, and the Laws of Cricket require that the scorers arrive at the correct figures for the aggregate scores of both sides to determine the result of the match.

It is customary for two scorers to officiate, but in some circumstances only one scorer maybe available. During the progress of the game the scorers should check frequently to ensure that the scores agree. Where only one scorer is available, the responsibility for accuracy is even greater, and every possible check should be used throughout the game.

• Recording Runs
  • All runs scored shall be recorded by Scorers appointed for the purpose. Where there are two Scorers they shall frequently check to ensure that the score sheets agree.
• Acknowledging Signals
  • The Scorers shall accept and immediately acknowledge all instructions and signals given to them by the Umpires.

The essential part of the score book or score sheet is that portion which lists the batsmen in order. There is space for each batsman, his score and the method of dismissal, and for sundries (byes, leg byes, wides and no-balls). The sheet also provides for the total runs at the fall of each wicket.

The other portion is for the bowling analysis. This is not necessary for determining the result of the match, but it provides a check for accuracy, and is essential to determine averages.

The main causes of inaccuracies are:-

• lack of concentration
• failure to incorrectly interpret umpires' signals.
• Where there is possible misunderstanding the umpires should be consulted.
• Inaccurate entries and failure to check totals.

The scorer should be familiar with the rules relating to the particular game, and must be conversant with umpires' signals.

The definition of a run off the bat, byes, leg byes, wides and no balls are all dealt with under the laws of cricket, and scorers are expected to familiarise themselves with these laws.

Laws relating to no-balls adds a further complication for scorers, and particular care needs to be taken with the entries in score books/score sheets.

To assist scorers to avoid the possibility of error, particularly in lower grades and junior level where players or parents are required to score, the following simple rules on the sequence of recording scores, and the use of the correct symbols may be of assistance.

Where runs are scored off the bat from a legitimate delivery the recommended sequence of recording is:

1. Runs to the batsman
2. Runs against the bowler
3. Mark off progressive team score

In the case of a no-ball there are three possible results:

• In the first instance where a no-ball is bowled and no additional runs are scored from it either by the batsman or in the form of byes or leg byes, 1 is entered in the no-ball column in the sundries, a circle with a dot is entered against the bowler, and one run is added to the team total.
• Where a batsman scores runs off a no-ball 1 is entered in the no-ball column in the sundries, the additional runs scored are credited to the batsman, the bowler is debited with the runs circled to indicate it is a no-ball, and the total runs are added to the team total.
• In the case where byes or leg byes are taken after a no-ball passes the striker, the total number of runs are entered in the no-ball column in the sundries, the bowler is debited with the total runs circled to indicate it is a no-ball, and the total runs are added to the team total.

Wides are treated in the same way as a no-ball.

1. In the appropriate sundries box.
2. Runs against the bowler ("W" in the Bowling Analysis)
3. Progressive team total.

Byes and leg byes are entered in the appropriate sundries box and added to the progressive team score.

It is important to note that the area, which causes the most concern is the recording of sundries.

With the wides and no-balls debited against the bowler, it is important to remember that these, plus byes and leg-byes are all sundry to the batting, but only byes and leg-byes are sundry to the bowling. At the end of the innings when scores are being totalled, all sundries are added to the batting, and byes and leg-byes only to the bowling.