American Cricket

Updated September 27, 2025

Overview

American Cricket is a classic darts game for 2 to 4.

Players & Teams

  • Players: 2 to 4.
  • Team play: Pairs common.
  • Each player throws three darts per turn in a fixed rotation.

Equipment & Board

  • Bristle / soft‑tip..
  • Standard throwing distance: 7 ft 9¼ in (2.37 m) to the board face for steel‑point; soft‑tip machines follow posted lines.
  • Board height: bullseye at 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m).

Setup & Basic Play

  • Targets: 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and bull.
  • Close a number with three marks (S=1, D=2, T=3).
  • After you close a number, you may score on it while opponents haven’t closed it.

Scoring & Winning

  • Win condition: Per inning-style scoring/closures; highest at end wins (define innings pre‑match).
  • Singles=face value, Doubles=×2, Triples=×3, inner bull=50, outer bull=25 (unless variant specifies otherwise).

League & Format Notes

  • Regional; less standard than classic Cricket.
  • Round robin or match‑play formats are common in clubs; confirm local leg order and tie‑breakers.

Variations

Common house rules adjust targets, required finishes, or innings. Agree variations before the first throw.

Strategy & Tips

  • Count ahead—aim to leave comfortable doubles or setups rather than random totals.
  • Miss on the “safe side” that still leaves a finish on the next dart.
  • Track marks (Cricket) or remaining scores clearly to prevent disputes.

Common Mistakes

  • Throwing extra darts after a bust (01).
  • Ignoring bull until too late (Cricket).
  • Poor record‑keeping—use a scoreboard or app.