Darts Cricket is one of the most popular (except classic 501) and exciting variations of the traditional darts game. It’s a fun and competitive game that challenges players to balance precision, strategy, and sometimes a bit of luck. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, mastering the game of Cricket in darts requires a good understanding of the rules and some effective strategies.
It also gives a nice variation to play if you are tired from the classic 501 game.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Darts Cricket, including the rules, scoring system, strategies, and tips for improving your game. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to hit the board with confidence and skill!
1. What Game Is Darts Cricket?
Darts Cricket is a strategic darts game where players aim to “close” specific numbers on the dartboard while accumulating points. Unlike traditional games of darts like “501”, which focus on reducing your score to zero, Cricket is about hitting particular segments of the board while trying to prevent your opponent from outscoring you. So it is more of you versus your enemy not you versus the score you want to reach zero.
Cricket is popular in casual settings, leagues, and tournaments due to its balance of strategy and skill. It can be played with two players or in teams, making it a versatile and fun game for all types of players. Local darts bars usually have cricket tournaments also from time to time – to change it up and keep it fun!
2. The Objective of Darts Cricket
The main goal in Darts Cricket is to “close” specific numbers on the dartboard (20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and bullseye) by hitting each number three times. The first player or team to close all these numbers and have the most points at the end wins the game.
So here is the part where you have to take into consideration your opponent’s throws and how you will adapt. There are different ways you can approach the situation and make sure you will win the game.
If both players or teams close all the numbers but are tied in points, the game continues until one player takes the lead and wins.
3. The Basics of Darts Cricket
1. Numbers in Play
In Cricket, only the following numbers are in play: 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and bullseye. Other numbers on the dartboard don’t count toward scoring or closing in this game.
2. Closing a Number
To close a number, you must hit it three times. You can achieve this in several ways:
- A single hit on the number counts as one.
- A double (hitting the double ring) counts as two hits.
- A triple (hitting the triple ring) counts as three hits and immediately closes the number.
So playing cricket players who are familiar with their trebles will have an edge – they can close the number and then earn points on top of that! To make sure you can hit the treble it is a good idea to practice your darts game. For different variations on how to practice you can read our article about that!
3. Scoring Points
Once you’ve closed a number, you can score points by hitting that number again, provided your opponent hasn’t closed it yet. For example, if you close 20 and your opponent hasn’t, any further hits on 20 will score points for you. The points you score are based on the value of the number. So hitting 20 after closing it will earn you 20 points per dart.
4. Winning the Game
To win the game, you need to:
- Close all the numbers (20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and bullseye) before your opponent.
- Have the most points when all numbers are closed. If both players close the same numbers, but one has a higher score, the higher-scoring player wins.
If all numbers are closed and the scores are tied, the game continues until one player outscores the other.
4. The Rules of Darts Cricket
- Turn Order: The game begins with a coin toss or a “closest to the bull” throw to decide who goes first. Players take turns throwing three darts per round.
- Closing Numbers: Only numbers 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the bullseye are used. Each number must be hit three times to close it. The outer bull counts as one hit, while the inner bull counts as two. So you can´t close the bullseye with just one dart!
- Scoring: You can only score points on numbers you have closed. If your opponent hasn’t closed the number, any further hits on that number score points for you. So if you are behind with the points it is a good idea to score points with closed number before moving onto the next one.
- Winning: The game ends when one player has closed all the numbers and has the highest score. If both players close all numbers but are tied in points, the game continues until one player scores more.
5. Darts Cricket Strategies for Winning
Cricket is as much a mental game as it is about precision. Developing a solid strategy can make the difference between victory and defeat. Here are some of the most effective strategies to help you excel at Darts Cricket:
1. Start with the Highest Numbers
A common strategy is to begin with the highest numbers first (20, 19, 18). Closing these numbers early allows you to score the most points if your opponent hasn’t closed them yet. This can give you a significant lead early in the game.
2. Focus on Points Early
If you close a high-value number like 20 or 19 before your opponent, aim to hit those numbers again to rack up points before they close it. This early scoring can create pressure and force your opponent to shift their focus from closing numbers to catching up in points.
3. Prioritize the Bullseye Late in the Game
The bullseye can be difficult to hit consistently, especially for newer players. Many players save the bullseye for last, focusing on the numbered sections first. However, if you’re skilled at hitting bullseyes, closing it early can give you a decisive advantage, as it prevents your opponent from easily scoring on that section.
4. Defensive Play: Deny Points
One key strategy in Cricket is to focus not only on scoring but also on preventing your opponent from scoring. If your opponent has closed a high number like 20, you may want to prioritize closing that number yourself to deny them further points. Denying your opponent the chance to score can be just as important as scoring yourself.
5. Use the Double and Triple Rings
Don’t just go for single hits—maximize your efforts by aiming for the double and triple rings. Closing a number faster means fewer chances for your opponent to score on that number. Hitting triples, in particular, allows you to close a number with a single dart, freeing you to focus on scoring or closing other numbers.
6. Adapt to Your Opponent’s Strategy
Pay attention to what your opponent is doing. If they’re focused on closing numbers without scoring, you may want to take advantage of that by scoring heavily on open numbers. If they’re scoring early, you may need to shift to a more defensive play and focus on closing their high-scoring numbers.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Darts Cricket
As with any game, there are a few common mistakes players make in Cricket that can cost them the win:
- Focusing Too Much on Closing: Some players focus entirely on closing numbers without considering the importance of scoring. Balancing the two is key to success in Cricket.
- Ignoring the Bullseye: The bullseye is often the most overlooked part of Cricket. Don’t wait until the last minute to close it—especially if your opponent is skilled at hitting bullseyes.
- Neglecting Defense: While scoring points is important, remember that preventing your opponent from scoring can be just as crucial. If your opponent has an open number that they’re scoring heavily on, make it a priority to close that number.
- Rushing: Darts Cricket is a strategic game. Take your time and think through your throws. Rushing can lead to poor accuracy and missed opportunities to score or close numbers.
7. Tips for Improving Your Darts Cricket Game
- Practice Targeting High Numbers: The higher numbers (20, 19, and 18) are where most of the scoring happens in Cricket. Spend extra time practicing these sections to build consistency and accuracy.
- Work on Your Bullseye Accuracy: The bullseye can be a game-changer, especially in close matches. Practice hitting both the inner and outer bull regularly.
- Use Visual Aids: Many professional players visualize their next shot before throwing. This mental preparation can help focus your aim and improve your accuracy.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Cricket can be an intense game, especially if you’re behind in points. Stay calm, trust your strategy, and focus on each throw rather than worrying about the score.
- Track Your Progress: Keep track of your scores during practice sessions to monitor improvement. This can help identify areas where you need to focus more effort.
8. Darts Cricket conclusion
Darts Cricket is a game that requires a blend of skill, strategy, and focus. By mastering the rules, employing smart strategies, and practicing regularly, you can become a formidable player in this exciting darts variation.
Whether you’re playing casually with friends or in a competitive league, the tips and strategies outlined in this article will help elevate your game and increase your chances of victory.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so grab your darts, hit the board, and start honing your Cricket skills today!
