Quick answer: Close your strongest high number early, build a controlled points cushion and avoid chasing low-percentage triples when two steady singles protect the lead.
Value control of high numbers early
A mark on 20 is more valuable than a mark on 15 because future excess hits can score more. If both players are open, starting on a high number generally creates the best combination of closure and scoring potential. A first-dart triple 20 closes the lane instantly and makes the remaining darts capable of producing points.
That is not a command to stay on 20 forever. If your 20s are closed and the opponent has two marks, another scoring dart may create pressure, but closing an opponent-owned 19 can prevent a quick response. Compare the likely value of the next three darts, not only the current bed.
Build the smallest cushion that changes the game
Points are insurance. A lead forces an opponent who closes first to find scoring marks before winning. The cushion need not be enormous; it should be large enough to absorb a realistic strong visit on the opponent's open target. Against a developing player, 40 or 60 may be meaningful. Against a strong triple hitter, one treble can erase that immediately.
Stop pointing when another scoring turn adds less safety than a closure. If you lead by 100 and the opponent has two marks on 18, attacking 18 may remove a lane worth 54 per triple. Extra 20s look productive but can leave the tactical problem untouched.
Respond to marks, not just points
Marks show future danger. An opponent with two marks on 19 can close and score with the same triple. If your 19 is open, that threat may deserve priority even when you lead. By contrast, an opponent with no marks on 16 presents less immediate scoring access.
Count the darts needed to neutralize a lane. If you need one mark to close 20 and the opponent needs three, a single 20 may be enough before switching. If you need all three marks and the opponent already owns the number, a triple attempt has high leverage. This darts-to-control perspective makes the scoreboard actionable.
Choose targets dart by dart
Do not precommit all three darts when the first changes the board. Suppose you need one mark on 20 and throw triple 20. One mark closes and two score 40; now the second dart may be better used on 19. If the first dart misses into 5, staying on 20 may remain necessary. Recalculate after each result.
Use larger singles when one mark is enough. Chasing a thin triple to close can turn a high-percentage defensive dart into a miss. Attack triples when multiple marks or immediate points justify the risk. The target should reflect what the scoreboard requires, not a desire to look aggressive.
Play the endgame backward
When only bull remains, determine whether closure alone wins. If you lead and the opponent cannot score on another open number, prioritize three bull marks. If you trail, you may need to score on a number the opponent still has open before closing bull. Do not close your last available scoring lane while behind unless another lane remains.
In multiplayer Cricket, check every opponent. A number is a scoring lane while any relevant opponent remains open under the chosen rules. An apparent win against one player can fail because a second opponent still controls the points race.
Turn the answer into a better game
Use the relevant tool or playing guide next instead of leaving the answer on the screen. You can play the Road to the Crown darts game, measure a lane with the setup calculator, or return to our dart boards homepage to compare board types and plan a complete setup.
Frequently asked questions
Should you close or score first in Cricket?
Close when it removes a dangerous lane; score when a cushion is needed to prevent an opponent from winning immediately after closure. The scoreboard decides.
How big should a Cricket points lead be?
Large enough to survive the opponent's realistic scoring visit. That varies by ability; one triple may be a major swing for a strong player.
Is it bad etiquette to score points in Cricket?
No. Scoring is part of standard Cricket. Excessive pointing with no competitive purpose may annoy casual opponents, but a useful lead is legitimate strategy.
The Throw Lab verdict
Good Cricket players convert the scoreboard into a priority list. Control high numbers, create only the cushion the match needs, and close lanes before an opponent can exploit them. Marks often matter more than the current point total because they reveal how quickly control can change. Reassess after every dart: a triple may complete one task and free the next dart for another. In the endgame, preserve a way to erase any deficit before closing your last target. This flexible approach is stronger than either rigid closing or indiscriminate pointing.