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Blackball

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description Blackball Overview

Blackball is a popular variation of eight-ball pool primarily played in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and several Commonwealth nations. Governed internationally by the World Eightball Pool Federation, the game is typically played on 7-foot tables using seven red balls, seven yellow balls, and a black eight ball. It is distinguished from American-style pool by rules that award players two visits to the table following a foul and by its use of smaller, round-edged pockets.

help Blackball FAQ

What happens after a standard foul in blackball pool?

Under blackball rules, the incoming player normally receives a free shot followed by one visit. This is often described casually as "two shots," but the free shot has special rules that distinguish it from an ordinary visit.

Can a player legally hit an opponent's ball after receiving a foul?

On the free shot following a foul, the player may nominate and play an opponent's group as the legal object ball. The player cannot normally win by potting the black during that free shot.

How is blackball different from American eight-ball?

Blackball is commonly played on smaller British-style tables with red and yellow object balls rather than numbered solids and stripes. Its foul procedure and free-shot system also differ from the ball-in-hand rules used in World Pool-Billiard Association eight-ball.

Which organizations govern competitive blackball?

The World Pool-Billiard Association publishes internationally recognized blackball rules. The World Eightball Pool Federation also organizes major competition in the British and international eightball tradition.

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