2025 Edition |
Interactive Guide

Cricket Darts Game Guide

Master the classic darts game of Cricket with strategic target closing and point scoring.

Game Overview

What is Cricket Darts?

Cricket is one of the most popular darts games worldwide, known for its blend of strategy and precision. Players aim to "close" specific numbers on the dartboard while scoring points to outpace their opponents.

This game balances skill and tactics, making it enjoyable for both beginners and experienced players.

Widely played in pubs, leagues, and tournaments, Cricket is a staple in the darts community.

Game Setup

Targets

Numbers 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and Bullseye

Equipment

Standard dartboard and darts

Basic Rules

1

Objective

Close all target numbers (20 through 15 and Bullseye) and have the highest score to win.

2

Closing Targets

Hit a number three times (single, double, or triple) to close it. Doubles count as two hits, triples as three.

3

Scoring

After closing a number, additional hits score points equal to that number’s value, but only if your opponent hasn’t closed it.

4

Winning

Close all targets and have a score equal to or greater than your opponent’s to win.

Scoring Examples

Number Scoring

If you’ve closed 20 but your opponent hasn’t:

Single 20

20 points

D

Double 20

40 points

T

Triple 20

60 points

Bullseye Scoring

If you’ve closed the Bullseye but your opponent hasn’t:

OB

Outer Bull (single)

25 points

IB

Inner Bull (double)

50 points

Strategic Considerations

Early Game

  • Target high-value numbers like 20 and 19 first to build a lead.

  • Focus on closing numbers quickly to start scoring points.

  • Aim for triples to close targets faster.

Mid Game

  • Close numbers your opponent is scoring on to block their points.

  • Balance closing targets with scoring on open numbers.

  • Keep an eye on the Bullseye as a high-value target.

Late Game

  • If ahead, focus on closing all remaining targets.

  • If behind, target open numbers for maximum points.

  • Secure the Bullseye to clinch victory or catch up.

Tips for Beginners

1

Start with 20s

Practice hitting the 20 segment to close it quickly and score early.

2

Understand Closing

Hit each target three times to close it—doubles and triples speed this up.

3

Focus on Consistency

Work on hitting the same number repeatedly before moving to others.

4

Score Strategically

Target numbers your opponent hasn’t closed to rack up points.

5

Learn the Board

Memorize the layout to switch targets efficiently.

6

Watch Your Opponent

Adapt your strategy based on what they’re targeting.