Carrom is a popular tabletop game played worldwide, requiring skill, strategy, and a thorough understanding of the rules. One of the essential aspects of the game is the due rules in carrom, which involve penalties for fouls or rule violations. Players must be aware of these rules to avoid unnecessary deductions and maintain a fair game.
This blog will explain the rules for due in carrom game, including when a due occurs and situations that lead to a double due in carrom. Understanding these rules can help players improve their performance and avoid penalties during matches.
What are Carrom Game Due Rules?
In carrom, "due" refers to a penalty imposed on a player for committing a foul or breaking the rules. When a due occurs, the player must place one of their previously pocketed coins back onto the board as a penalty. If the player has not pocketed any coins yet, the due is carried forward until they do.
The due rules in carrom ensure fair play and discourage unfair moves. Repeated violations can lead to additional penalties, including a double due in carrom, which increases the disadvantage for the player.
Most Important Carrom Game Due Rules
Here are some of the most important due carrom rules that every player should be aware of:
Pocketing the Striker
If a player pockets the striker, it results in a due. The player must return one of their pocketed coins to the board, and they also lose their turn.
Pocketing the Opponent’s Coin
If a player accidentally pockets the opponent’s coin, they receive a due and must place one of their own pocketed coins back on the board.
Pocketing the Last Coin Before the Queen
If a player pockets their last coin without covering the queen, it results in a due. The last coin must be placed back on the board, and the turn passes to the opponent.
Improper Positioning of Coins
If a player places coins incorrectly at the beginning of the game or moves them unfairly during play, they may receive a due as a penalty.
Touching Coins Illegally
If a player touches the coins with their hand or body other than using the striker, it is considered a foul, leading to a due.
Failure to Break Properly
If the first shot (break) does not properly spread the coins or fails to touch any, a due may be imposed.
Double Due in Carrom
If a player commits a serious foul, such as pocketing the striker and an opponent's coin simultaneously, or repeated fouls, they may be given a double due in carrom. According to carrom double due rules, this penalty requires the player to return two pocketed coins to the board, which can impact their progress and strategy in the game.
When Does a Due Occur in Carrom Game?
A due in carrom is imposed when a player commits a foul or breaks specific game rules. Here are the detailed situations where a due is given:
Striker Foul
If a player pockets the striker, it results in a due. The penalty for this includes placing one of the pocketed coins back onto the board and losing the turn. If the player has not pocketed any coins yet, the due is carried forward until they do. This rule ensures that players take careful and precise shots instead of relying on forceful or careless striking.
Pocketing the Opponent’s Coin
Accidentally pocketing an opponent’s coin is considered a foul. As a penalty, the opponent retains the pocketed coin, while the player who committed the foul must return one of their own pocketed coins to the board. Additionally, the turn immediately passes to the opponent, reducing the chances for the player to maintain control of the game.
Improper Queen Covering
In carrom, when a player pockets the queen, they must pocket one of their own coins in the same turn to properly "cover" it. If they fail to do so, the queen is placed back at the center of the board, and the player is given a due. This rule ensures that the queen cannot be claimed unfairly without a valid follow-up shot, making the game more competitive.
Illegal Striker Placement
Before taking a shot, the striker must be correctly positioned within the base lines of the board. If a player fails to place the striker properly or moves it incorrectly before striking, it is considered a foul, leading to a due. This rule ensures fairness and maintains consistency in the game setup for every player.
Improper Strokes and Their Penalties
In carrom, following the carrom striker rules is crucial to avoid penalties. An improper stroke, such as a double touch, push shot, or striking from outside the baseline, results in a due. If a player fails to use the striker correctly or touches the coins directly, they receive a penalty and lose their turn. These rules ensure fair gameplay and proper technique in every match.
Situations Leading to a Double Due in Carrom
A double due in carrom is a stricter penalty where a player must return two of their pocketed coins to the board instead of one. This usually happens when a player commits a serious foul or repeatedly violates the rules. Below are some common situations that result in a double due:
Pocketing the Striker Along with an Opponent’s Coin
If a player pockets both the striker and an opponent’s coin in the same shot, they receive a double due. This results in placing two pocketed coins back on the board.
Striker and Queen Pocketed Without Proper Cover
If a player pockets both the striker and the queen but fails to cover the queen by sinking one of their own coins in the same turn, they receive a double due. The queen is repositioned at the center, and two of the player's pocketed coins must be returned to the board as a penalty.
Simultaneous Pocketing of Striker and Opponent’s Coin
If a player pockets both the striker and an opponent’s coin in the same shot, they are penalized with a double due. One of their own coins must be placed back on the board, while the opponent retains the pocketed coin, giving them a strategic advantage.
FAQs
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Can a player continue playing after getting a due?
No, after receiving a due, the player loses their turn, and the opponent gets the next shot. The player must wait for their turn to play again.
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What happens if a player has no pocketed coins when a due is imposed?
If a player receives a due but has not pocketed any coins yet, the due remains pending. As soon as they pocket their first coin, it must be placed back on the board to clear the penalty.
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Is there any way to avoid getting a due in carrom?
Yes, players can avoid receiving a due in carrom by following the correct striking techniques, ensuring proper queen coverage, and avoiding fouls like pocketing the striker or an opponent’s coin. Practicing precision and control helps in reducing penalties.
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Can a player get a due for an improper break shot?
Yes, if a player fails to execute a proper break shot—such as when no coins move beyond the center circle or the striker does not touch any coins—it results in a due. In some cases, the opponent gets the chance to redo the break.
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Can a player challenge a due penalty?
In casual play, disputes over a due can be resolved by mutual agreement. However, in official tournaments, referees or umpires make the final decision based on the rules, and penalties cannot be challenged once declared.
Conclusion
Understanding the due rules in carrom is essential for fair gameplay and avoiding unnecessary penalties. A due occurs when a player commits a foul, such as pocketing the striker, failing to cover the queen, or striking incorrectly. In more serious cases, a double due in carrom is imposed, requiring the player to return two pocketed coins to the board.
Following the correct techniques, maintaining precision in striking, and being aware of common fouls can help players avoid dues and stay in control of the game. Whether playing casually or in competitive matches, knowing these rules ensures a smoother and more enjoyable carrom experience.
