How to Play Cricket Darts: Rules, Scoring and Strategy

Cricket is the most popular darts game in American bars and leagues, and for good reason. It is easy to learn, fast to play and full of strategy once you get the hang of it. If you have ever stood by a scoreboard full of slashes, X's and circles wondering what it all means, this guide is for you. Below you will learn how to play cricket darts step by step: which numbers count, how marks and closing work, how points are scored and some simple strategy to start winning.

What is cricket in darts?

Cricket is a game in which players (or teams) race to "close" a set of numbers on the dartboard while scoring points on numbers their opponent has not closed yet. It is played on the standard dartboard with both steel-tip and soft-tip darts, and it is a staple of league play across the US. Do not confuse it with the bat-and-ball sport of the same name; the only thing they share is the word.

The numbers in play

Only seven targets count in standard cricket:

• 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20
• The bullseye (both the outer bull and the inner bull)

Every other number on the board scores nothing. That keeps the game focused and makes accuracy on the top half and right side of the board important.

How marks work

To close a number, you need three marks on it. Different parts of the board give you different numbers of marks:

• Single (the large sections) = 1 mark
• Double (the thin outer ring) = 2 marks
• Triple (the thin inner ring) = 3 marks, closing the number in one dart
• Outer bull = 1 mark
• Inner bull (double bull) = 2 marks

On a chalkboard, marks are usually written as a slash for one, an X for two and a circled X (or a circle) when the number is closed. Electronic boards track this for you.

How to play cricket darts, step by step

1. Decide who throws first. Usually each player throws one dart at the bull, and the closest goes first.
2. Take turns throwing three darts. Each turn is three darts, then your opponent throws.
3. Record your marks. Every hit on 15 to 20 or the bull adds marks toward closing that target.
4. Close numbers. Once you have three marks on a number, you have "closed" it (sometimes called "owning" it).
5. Score points. After you close a number, any extra hits on it score points, as long as your opponent has not also closed it.
6. Win the game. The first player to close all seven targets and have an equal or higher point total wins.

How scoring points works

This is the part that turns cricket from a simple race into a strategy game. Once you close a number, every extra mark on it is worth points equal to that number:

• A single 20 on a closed 20 = 20 points
• A triple 20 on a closed 20 = 60 points
• An outer bull on a closed bull = 25 points
• An inner bull on a closed bull = 50 points

You can only score on a number while your opponent has not closed it. As soon as they close it too, that number is "dead" and nobody can score on it.

A quick example

You hit a triple 20 with your first dart, closing 20. Your next two darts hit a single 20 and a double 20. Because your opponent has not closed 20, those extra marks score 20 + 40 = 60 points. On their turn, your opponent should try to close 20 to stop you scoring more.

Cricket strategy for beginners

Start high

Most players start with 20 and work down. Higher numbers score more points, so closing them first gives you more scoring power.

Balance closing and scoring

A common rule of thumb: do not score so many points that you fall far behind on closing, and do not close everything while trailing badly on points. Keep both in balance.

Close your opponent's scoring number

If your opponent is piling up points on a number, closing it shuts down their scoring. This is often the best defensive move.

Do not forget the bull

Many games are decided at the bull. Practice hitting it so you are not stuck at the end of a game you should have won.

Aim at the triple, accept the single

Aiming at the triple ring gives you a chance of three marks, and a near miss still often lands in the single of the same number.

Popular cricket variations

• Cut-throat cricket: points you score are added to your opponents' totals, and the lowest score wins. Popular with three or more players.
• No-score cricket: a simple race to close all numbers, great for beginners and kids.
• Team cricket: partners alternate turns and share one scoreboard, common in leagues.

House and league rules vary, so confirm the format before you start.

Cricket etiquette

• Stand behind the throw line (the oche) and stay still while your opponent throws.
• Remove your darts promptly and let the scorekeeper record marks before pulling them, if you play with a chalker.
• Call your own marks honestly.
• Shake hands at the start and end of the game.

Gear for cricket night

You need a set of darts, a standard board and a scoreboard. If you are playing in a league, a team jersey is part of the fun. Many dart shirts include a chest pocket to hold darts between turns. See our dart league shirts and dart jerseys, which can be personalized with your name and team name.

When ordering, check our size guide so your throwing arm has room: a men's polo in L measures 18 inches across the shoulder and 44 inches at the chest. Shirts are printed to order with 2–3 business days of processing and 3–7 business days of US shipping, and orders over $50 ship free.

Practice drill: cricket against the clock

A great solo drill is to see how many turns it takes you to close every cricket number from 20 down to the bull. Write down your total each session and try to beat it. It builds the exact accuracy cricket demands, and you will notice the improvement on league night within a few weeks.

FAQ: how to play cricket darts

How do you play cricket in darts?

Players take turns throwing three darts to close 15 through 20 and the bull by hitting each three times. Extra hits on a closed number score points until the opponent closes it. Close everything with equal or more points to win.

How many darts do you need for cricket?

Each player uses a set of three darts and throws all three each turn.

What does a triple count as in cricket?

Three marks, which closes a number with one dart.

What is the best strategy for cricket darts?

Start with high numbers, balance closing and scoring, and close numbers your opponent is scoring on.

Can I get a custom dart shirt for my cricket league?

Yes, with no minimum. All items, including personalized ones, can be returned within 30 days, and support is available 8 AM–5 PM Pacific time.

Ready for your next game? Gear up in our darts collection and wear your game.