Winning Darts Cricket: A Complete Strategy Guide

Cricket is a game of tactical warfare on the dartboard. Unlike the pure race of 501, Cricket is a dynamic battle for control, requiring players to instantly switch between offense and defense. Mastering this game means understanding not just how to hit your targets, but why you're hitting them.

The Objective

The goal of Cricket is to "close" the numbers 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the Bullseye. To close a number, you must hit it three times (a single counts as one hit, a double as two, and a triple as three). Once you have closed a number and your opponent has not, any further hits on that number score points until your opponent also closes it. The player with the most points when all numbers are closed by at least one player wins.

The Fundamental Decision: Pointing vs. Closing

Every turn in Cricket comes down to a core decision:

• Offense (Pointing): Scoring points on numbers you have closed that your opponent has not.
• Defense (Closing): Hitting numbers your opponent has open to stop them from scoring.

The winner is almost always the player who manages this decision best.

Opening Strategy: The First Turn

Your first three darts set the tone for the entire game.

• The Case for 20s: The 20 is the biggest number, offering the highest scoring potential. Starting on the 20s allows you to build a quick point lead if you can close it and your opponent struggles.
• The Case for 19s: Many top players prefer starting on 19s. It's a slightly smaller target, but it's in a less-traveled part of the board, reducing the chance of your darts being blocked. It also puts immediate pressure on your opponent to switch to a different target.
• The Dream Start: The "9 Count": If you hit a triple with your first dart, closing a number instantly, you have two darts left. The aggressive play is to use both darts to score points on that number. A 9-count on the 20s (T20, T20, T20) gives you a 120-point lead after the first turn, a massive advantage.

Mid-Game Strategy: Controlling the Board

• When to Point Up (Offense): If you have a significant number advantage (e.g., you have the 20s and 19s closed, and your opponent only has the 17s), it's time to score. Every dart that doesn't add to your point lead is a wasted opportunity.
• When to Close Out (Defense): If your opponent has a high number open and is scoring on it, you MUST switch to defense. Your priority is to close that number and stop the bleeding. A 40-point lead can vanish in one turn if your opponent has the 20s open.
• The 200-Point Rule: A common strategic guideline is that if you are more than 200 points ahead, you should stop pointing and focus exclusively on closing out the remaining numbers to win the game.

The Role of the Bullseye

The bullseye is a game-changer, but it's a double-edged sword.

• Closing the Bull: The inner bull counts as a double, meaning you can close the bullseye with a double-bull, single-bull sequence. This makes it a tempting target.
• When to Go for Bull:
  1. To Win: If the bullseye is the last number you need to close and you have a point lead, go for it.
  2. To Catch Up: If you are significantly behind in points, closing the bullseye can give you a high-value target to score on.
  3. As a Strategic Gamble: If the game is stalled and no one is scoring, taking control of the bullseye can give you a psychological and strategic advantage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Chasing Points: If you are down by 150 points, trying to match your opponent on the 20s is often a losing battle. It's better to close other numbers and try to build your own scoring opportunities elsewhere.
• Ignoring Your Opponent: Always be aware of what numbers your opponent has open and what their score is. Their situation should dictate your strategy.
• Pointing with a Small Lead: A 30 or 40-point lead is not safe. It's often better to use that advantage to close another number rather than trying to extend a small lead.

Cricket is a thinking person's game. The player who can anticipate their opponent's moves and make the right decision between offense and defense will consistently come out on top.