Rules of Cricket

Cricket is probably the most popular dart game in the US. It differs from 501 in that cricket allows for a wider range of strategy. In fact, strategy between equals is often the difference between winning and losing.

First lets take a look at the basic rules of cricket. The game is played using numbers 20 through 15 and the bull’s-eye. The object of the game is to score three marks in each number with singles counting as one, doubles as two, and triples as three respectively.

But there is a wrinkle and this is where the strategy comes into play. You may score points on any number you have hit 3 marks in and your opponent has two or less. The value of each additional dart is added to your score until your opponent also has hit three marks in that number. Once both players have hit 3 marks in a number that number is closed and no longer eligible for scoring in the game.

Marks are scored as slashes for one, an x for two, and a circle for three. The first person to hit 3marks in a particular number is said to have "opened" that number. Opened simply means that the number is now available to be scored upon until the opponent also hits 3marks in that number. When this occurs that player is said to have "closed" the number. Closed means that the number is no longer eligible to be scored on by either player and is effectively out of play for the duration of the game.

The winner is the first player with the most points to have scored 3 marks in all the numbers 20 through 15 and the bull’s-eye. You cannot win the game until both of these conditions are met.

In future articles we will delve further into scoring and strategy for both beginning and advanced players.