The objective
Close the numbers 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and the bullseye before your opponents, while scoring more points than them. To win you must have closed all seven targets and have equal or more points than every other player.
Marks: how to close a number
Every target needs three marks to be closed. A single scores one mark, a double scores two and a treble scores three. Hitting a treble 20 closes the 20 in a single dart. For the bull, the outer bull counts as one mark and the inner bull as two.
Scoring points
Once you have closed a number and an opponent has not, every further hit on it scores you points: 20 points per single 20, 40 per double, 60 per treble. Once all players have closed a number, it is dead and no longer scores.
Turns and rounds
Players throw three darts per turn, alternating. There is no round limit: the game ends when someone closes everything with the highest score. Typical games between evenly matched players last 10 to 20 rounds.
Strategy basics
Start with the 20 and work down: high numbers score more when your opponent hasn't closed them. If you are behind on points, close the number your opponent is scoring on to stop the bleeding. If you are ahead, keep pointing while they chase you.
Popular variants
Cut-throat cricket reverses scoring: points you score are added to your opponents, and the lowest score wins. No-score cricket removes points entirely and the first to close everything wins — perfect for beginners or quick games.
Frequently asked questions
How many players can play cricket darts?
Two is standard, but cricket works with 3 to 5 players or in teams. Our scoreboard supports up to 5 players per game.
Can you win cricket darts with fewer points?
No. You must close all targets and have at least as many points as every opponent. If you close last but are behind on points, you must keep scoring on open numbers.
Does the bullseye count double in cricket?
Yes. The inner bull counts as two marks (or 50 points once closed) and the outer bull as one mark (25 points).