Cricket is one of the most popular darts games played in pubs, clubs, and homes around the world. Unlike 501, which focuses purely on scoring and checkouts, Cricket combines accuracy with tactical decision-making, making it a favourite for casual players and competitive darters alike.
If you’ve never played Cricket before, you’re in for a treat. It’s easy to learn, endlessly replayable, and offers a completely different challenge to the standard 501 format.
What is Cricket Darts?
Cricket is a strategic darts game where players compete to “close” specific numbers on the dartboard while accumulating points. The game uses only seven target areas: 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the Bull (both inner and outer).
The objective is simple: close all seven numbers before your opponent while having equal or more points. But as you’ll discover, the strategy behind achieving this can get quite interesting.
The Rules of Cricket
Target Numbers
Cricket focuses on the highest-scoring numbers on the board plus the Bull:
- 20 - The most valuable single number
- 19 - Second highest
- 18 - Third highest
- 17 - Fourth highest
- 16 - Fifth highest
- 15 - Sixth highest
- Bull - Both the outer bull (25) and inner bull (50)
Closing Numbers
To “close” a number, you must hit it three times. The way you accumulate these hits matters:
- Single = 1 mark (one hit towards closing)
- Double = 2 marks (two hits towards closing)
- Treble = 3 marks (closes the number instantly)
For the Bull, the outer bull counts as 1 mark (worth 25 points) and the inner bull counts as 2 marks (worth 50 points). You still need 3 marks to close it.
Scoring Points
Here’s where Cricket gets tactical. Once you’ve closed a number but your opponent hasn’t, any additional hits on that number score points for you. The points are based on the number’s face value:
- Single 20 = 20 points
- Double 20 = 40 points
- Treble 20 = 60 points
This continues until your opponent also closes that number, at which point neither player can score on it.
Winning the Game
To win Cricket, you must:
- Close all seven numbers (20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and Bull)
- Have equal or more points than your opponent
If you close all numbers but have fewer points, you’ll need to keep scoring on your opponent’s open numbers until you catch up—or they close everything themselves.
Cricket Scoring Notation
When keeping score, Cricket uses a simple marking system:
- / (slash) = 1 mark
- X = 2 marks
- ⊗ (circled X) = 3 marks (closed)
A typical Cricket scoreboard shows all seven numbers down the middle, with each player’s marks on either side. Some scoreboards also display running point totals at the bottom.
Basic Strategy
Opening Strategy
Most players start with 20 because it offers the highest scoring potential. If you can close 20 before your opponent and start racking up treble 20s, you’ll build a significant points advantage.
However, some players prefer to start lower (15 or 16) to catch their opponent off guard. There’s no universally “correct” approach—it depends on your accuracy and your read on your opponent’s strengths.
Offensive vs Defensive Play
Cricket strategy often comes down to a choice between two approaches:
Offensive play focuses on closing your numbers quickly to maximise scoring opportunities. You’re racing to get ahead on marks while leaving numbers open to score points.
Defensive play focuses on closing the same numbers your opponent is targeting to deny them scoring opportunities. You sacrifice potential points to limit your opponent’s advantage.
The best players balance both, adapting their strategy based on the game situation.
Managing the Bull
Many players leave the Bull until last, which can be a mistake. The Bull is often the most difficult target to hit consistently, so saving it for a pressure situation rarely ends well.
Consider mixing in Bull attempts throughout the game, especially when you’re ahead on marks. Getting it closed early removes the stress of needing it at the end.
Common Variations
Cut-Throat Cricket
In Cut-Throat Cricket (3+ players), scoring works differently. When you score points on an open number, those points go to your opponents rather than to you. The winner is the player with the lowest score when all numbers are closed.
This creates a fascinating dynamic where you want to close numbers quickly to avoid receiving points, while also strategically scoring on numbers your opponents have open.
Tactics Cricket
Some versions require players to hit the numbers in order (20 first, then 19, etc.). This makes the game more structured and can help beginners focus on one target at a time.
Tips for Improving at Cricket
Practice All Seven Numbers
Many 501 players are excellent at treble 20 but struggle with other areas of the board. Cricket punishes one-dimensional accuracy. Spend time practising each of the seven targets, particularly 16, 17, and the Bull, which often receive less attention.
Count Your Marks
Keep track of both your marks and your opponent’s. Knowing exactly where you stand helps you make better tactical decisions. If your opponent needs just one more mark on 19 to close it, you might prioritise closing 19 yourself rather than continuing to score on 20.
Don’t Neglect Doubles and Trebles
While singles will get the job done, doubles and trebles are far more efficient. A single treble closes a number instantly, saving you two darts. Develop the confidence to aim for the treble even when a single would suffice.
Stay Calm Under Pressure
Cricket games can swing dramatically in the final stages. Maintain your routine and focus on one dart at a time, especially when both players are down to just the Bull remaining.
Practice Cricket Online
Ready to improve your Cricket game? Try our free Cricket practice game where you can play solo, challenge a friend, or test your skills against the bot. Track your marks, work on your accuracy, and see how quickly you can close all seven numbers.
Related Guides
- How to Play 501 Darts - Master the classic format
- Darts Checkout Chart - Essential finishing reference
- Common Darts Mistakes and How to Fix Them - Improve your technique