In cricket, 'DLs' stands for 'Duckworth-Lewis-Stern' method. This method is used to calculate the target score for the chasing team in a limited-overs match that is affected by rain or other weather disruptions.
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method is named after its creators, Frank Duckworth and Tony Lewis, who later had their method updated by Steve Stern. The original method was developed in the 1990s and has since become an integral part of cricket, helping to ensure fair results even when matches are interrupted.
How the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Method Works
The method calculates the target score by taking into account the number of wickets lost and overs bowled by the team batting first. The idea is to determine how many runs the team would have scored if they had played out the full innings under normal conditions.
Here's a brief overview of how the calculation works:
Resource Calculation: The team's resources, which are the overs and wickets remaining, are calculated.
Par Score: A par score is determined, which is the number of runs the team would be expected to score with the remaining resources.
Adjustment for Wickets Lost: As wickets are lost, the par score is adjusted accordingly, as fewer wickets usually mean fewer runs can be scored.
Application in Matches
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method is used when a match is interrupted and the teams are unable to complete their full quota of overs. The method ensures that the team chasing the target score has a fair chance of winning, even if they have fewer overs to play.
In the event of a rain delay, the match officials will calculate the revised target score using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, and the game will resume with the chasing team aiming to reach this new target.
Conclusion
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method has been a significant innovation in cricket, allowing matches to be completed fairly even in the face of adverse weather conditions. By understanding the DLs full form in cricket and how it is applied, fans can better appreciate the strategic nuances of the game.