Cricket darts is a competitive game built on timing, accuracy, and defensive thinking. Unlike point-only games, cricket demands both scoring and blocking. That’s why it remains popular on home setups and pub boards, especially models featured in Best Dart Boards for Home Use.
What Is Cricket?
Cricket uses only a limited selection of numbers. Each shot contributes either to closing a number or scoring points against an opponent who hasn’t closed it yet. The game rewards strategy over pure skill, which makes it suitable for mixed-level players. Anyone who wants automated scoring for cricket often considers boards compared in Arachnid cricket pro 650 vs 800.
Objective of Cricket Darts
The purpose of the game is simple:
Close the numbers 15–20 and bullseye
Score only when the opponent has not closed the same number
Finish with equal or more points to win
In other words: close wisely, score only when it matters. This tactical pacing resembles the thought-driven style seen in How To Play Around The Clock.
Equipment Required
You can play cricket on:
Steel tip sisal boards
Soft tip electronic boards
Magnetic boards for casual play
Players who want help with scoring usually choose boards found in Best Electronic Dart Boards 2025. For home walls, protection saves repairs and dart damage, especially options under Best dart board wall protector.
Target Numbers and Bullseye Rules
In cricket, only these matter:
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
Bullseye (outer = one mark, inner = two marks)
Each number requires three hits to close. To better understand dartboard segments and point zones, new players often refer to How Many Numbers On A Dartboard.
How to Close Numbers
Numbers close after three total hits:
Single = 1 hit
Double = 2 hits
Triple = 3 hits (instant closure)
How Scoring Works
You can score only when:
You have closed the number
Your opponent has not closed it
Extra hits = points equal to the number value.
Example: After closing 18, a triple gains 54 points. This is why accuracy and control matter. Many players refine their grip from guides like How To Hold A Dart.
Bullseye Strategy
Bullseye scoring can decide late-game outcomes. Its value:
Outer Bull = 25 points
Inner Bull = 50 points
Players usually delay bullseye unless they need to block the opponent. Since bullseye shots require extremely precise aiming, many learn control using How to aim with darts.
Winning Conditions
You must:
Close every number
Have equal or greater points
If both players close everything, the highest score wins. This keeps the game active until someone protects their lead. Similar logic is seen in strategic formats like How To Play Golf Darts.
Turn Structure
Cricket follows a simple sequence:
Each player throws three darts per turn
All hits are scored instantly
Players alternate until all targets are closed
Mistakes happen if players forget to mark hits. Electronic scoreboards solve this, particularly on models tested in Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard.
Strategy Breakdown
Offensive Tips
Start with 20 and 19 for higher scoring value
Close valuable numbers fast
Score only when your opponent leaves numbers open
Defensive Tactics
Close any number your opponent is scoring on
Don’t chase points while giving the opponent openings
Protect the scoreboard lead before finishing closures
Bullseye Timing
Close only when scoring pressure matters
Use bullseye to break ties or secure the lead
Save shots until accuracy feels stable
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Scoring before closing high numbers
Closing everything without building a lead
Ignoring bullseye until the last second
Missing track marks and losing points
Faulty equipment also causes bounce-outs and lost scoring. Solutions are detailed in Stop Darts From Bouncing Out.
Example Game Scenario
Player A closes 20 with a triple and scores before Player B closes that number. B closes 20 later but earns no points. Player A now controls the pace and can shift to defense by closing lower targets. This demonstrates how one well-timed triple matters more than several scattered singles, a principle strengthened through drills in Master Your Dart Throwing Technique.
Cricket Variations
Players enjoy alternative formats such as:
Cut-Throat Cricket (score against opponents)
Sequence Cricket (targets must close in order)
Fast Cricket (only two hits per number)
Final Takeaway
Cricket darts blends accuracy, decision-making, and scoreboard control. A beginner can beat a skilled player by knowing when to defend and when to score. Mastering mechanics and timing is key to long-term improvement, especially using training techniques found in Master Your Dart Throwing Technique.