The DLS method explained
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method sets a fair revised target when rain shortens a limited-overs match. It treats overs remaining and wickets in hand as a batting resource, and compares the resources each team had.
How it works
Every combination of overs left and wickets in hand is worth a percentage of a full innings. If the team batting second has less resource than the team batting first, the target is scaled down in proportion. If the first innings was also cut short, both innings are compared on resource percentages.
Why wickets matter, not just overs
A side with nine wickets in hand and ten overs left can swing freely. A side with two wickets in hand and ten overs left cannot. DLS values that difference, which is why a simple run-rate scale-down is unfair.
Minimum overs for a result
A result needs a minimum number of overs per side. In T20 internationals that is five overs, and in One Day Internationals it is twenty, although tournament playing conditions can differ.
Par score
The par score is the total the chasing team would need at a given moment to be level on DLS if play stopped. You will often see it on screen with the target after a rain break.
Frequently asked questions
What does DLS stand for?
Duckworth-Lewis-Stern, named after the statisticians who devised and later refined the method.
How many overs are needed for a DLS result in T20?
Five overs per side in T20 internationals, unless the event rules say otherwise.
What is the par score in cricket?
The score the chasing side would need at that point to be level with the target under DLS.
Does DLS use wickets as well as overs?
Yes. Overs remaining and wickets in hand together form the batting resource.