This column is Part I of several columns dedicated to the game of cricket. Darters have many different strategies for playing cricket and some are better then others. Here, I hope to offer some pointers to help anyone playing the game of cricket.
First of all, I assume you understand the basics of the game. The goal in cricket is to hit 3 of the 15s, 16s, 17s, 18s, 19s, 20s, and bullseyes before your opponent. The numbers can be hit in any order so "slop" does count, though most darters playing cricket begin with the 20s. Once you've hit three of any particular number, you have "closed" that number. If your opponent has not yet hit three of that particular number, any darts you throw at that number will score on your side as points. The winner of the game has closed out all their numbers and have an equal or greater number of points.
On to some of the basics, which come from my personal experiences as well as the book "How to Play Winning Darts" by Buddy. Check out Amazon.com to order this book.
- Unlike the '01 games where you are racing down to zero no matter what your opponent is doing, cricket is a game of action and reaction. Your strategy must depend in part on what your opponent has done.
- Strive for a minimum of three marks per turn and expect the same from opponents.
- Three "fat" numbers are better then three "missed" triples.
- If your opponent has a number closed, and you need one mark to close the number, aim for the fat part of the number. It's larger then the triple area and one fat number to close is better then a couple of missed triples.
- Use total marks scored to compare game position.
- Play offensively. Chasing (closing behind an opener) is defensive and a losing move. If your opponent has 20s, 19s, and 18s closed, do not chase and keep aiming to close the 20s.
- Take control; open numbers first, close later. Always score first!
- When in doubt, point! Scoring gives the greatest bang per dart but not in excess.
- If possible, close bulls early for a comeback, to create a barrier or psych-out opponent(s).
- Close open numbers (including bulls) only with a good lead and extra darts.
- You win or lose cricket with single marks. Aim for triples but expect singles.
- Know your strategy when you step up to the line. You should know what you're aiming for, and what you will shoot for next if your first dart misses its intended target.
- Above all else, stay calm when behind. We've all seen the game or two where the underdog comes from way behind to win the game. So stay calm and don't underestimate your opponent.
Again, this is Part I of my columns on cricket. In future columns I'll give different scenarios with a choice of what to do, and what I would do. If you have anything specific you want covered in cricket, simply click on the E-mail Webmaster link at the bottom of this page and drop me a note.
As always, good luck and I'll see you at the line.