The Cricket Dart Game is one of the most popular dartboard formats worldwide. Unlike the traditional “01” dart games that focus on reducing scores to zero, Cricket darts emphasizes closing numbers and outscoring your opponent. This makes it both strategic and fun, appealing to beginners and professionals alike.
If you’ve ever searched “how to play cricket darts” or “cricket darts rules explained”, this guide will give you a clear, step‑by‑step breakdown.
Contents
What is Cricket Darts?
Cricket darts is a strategic dartboard game where players aim to “open” and “close” specific numbers on the dartboard. The numbers used are:
- 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and the Bullseye
The objective is to close all these numbers while also scoring points to stay ahead of your opponent.
Basic Rules of Cricket Darts
1. Objective
- Close all the target numbers (15–20 + Bullseye).
- Have equal or more points than your opponent when all numbers are closed.
2. Opening and Closing Numbers
- A number is considered “open” when a player hits it three times.
- This can be achieved by:
- Hitting a single three times
- Hitting a double (counts as two) + a single
- Hitting a triple (counts as three at once)
3. Scoring in Cricket Darts
- Once you’ve opened a number, you can score points on it until your opponent closes it.
- Example: If you’ve opened 20 and hit a triple 20, you score 60 points.
- Points are only valid on numbers you’ve opened and your opponent hasn’t closed yet.
4. Closing the Bullseye
- Outer Bull (green) = 1 hit
- Inner Bull (red) = 2 hits
- You need 3 hits total to close the bullseye.
5. Winning the Game
- A player wins when:
- All numbers (15–20 + Bull) are closed.
- They have equal or more points than the opponent.
If you close all numbers but trail in points, you must keep scoring until you’re ahead.
Strategies for Cricket Darts
- Target High Numbers First (20, 19, 18): Maximize scoring potential early.
- Play Offense + Defense: Close numbers your opponent is using to block their scoring.
- Bullseye Timing: Save it for later unless you’re confident in your aim.
- Pressure Play: If ahead, close numbers quickly. If behind, keep scoring aggressively.
Why Cricket Darts is Popular
- Balanced for all skill levels — easy for beginners, strategic for pros.
- Fast‑paced and engaging — unlike long “01” games, cricket darts keeps players active.
- Social and competitive — perfect for pubs, tournaments, or family gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Que 1: What Numbers are used in Cricket Darts?
Ans: 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and the bullseye.
Que 2: How Do You Score in Cricket Darts?
Ans: You score points on numbers you’ve opened until your opponent closes them.
Que 3: Can Beginners Play Cricket Darts?
Ans: Yes! It’s one of the easiest dart formats to learn while still being strategic.
Final Thoughts
The Cricket Dart Game is more than just throwing darts — it’s about strategy, timing, and smart play. By mastering the rules and practicing your aim, you’ll enjoy one of the most exciting dart formats in the world.
So next time you’re at the dartboard, challenge your friends to a game of Cricket darts — and may the sharpest strategy win!
