A generalized non-linear forecasting model for limited overs international cricket

Abstract

This paper proposes a generalized non-linear forecasting model (GNLM) for forecasting the number of runs remaining to be scored in an innings of cricket. The proposed model takes into account the numbers of overs left and wickets lost. The GNLFM can be used to build a model for any format of limited-overs international cricket. However, the purpose of its use in this paper is for building a forecasting model for projecting second innings total runs in Twenty-20 International cricket. Our model makes it possible to estimate the runs differential of the two competing teams whilst the match is in progress. The runs differential can be used not only to gauge the closeness of a game, but also to estimate the ratings of cricket teams that take into account the margin of victory. Furthermore, the well-known original Duckworth/Lewis (DL) model and the McHale/Asif version of it for revising targets in interrupted matches are special cases of our proposed generalized non-linear forecasting model.