Ken Larsen’s Web Site - Backgammon Tips
Doubling Cube Tip #2
Be aware of the score in a match. As you get closer to the winning score, be cautious with the doubling cube. If you’re down significantly in the match, it may be time to be aggressive with the cube.
Example 1: If player A is up 3-0 over player B in a 5 point match, player A should not consider doubling at all – even if way ahead. If player A wins, the next game is the Crawford game, so no doubling cube can be used. That’s a significant advantage for player A. Player A may even win a gammon and the match in the 3-0 game.
Example 2: If player A does double when up 3-0 in a 5 point match, should player B accept? Well, if it’s early in the game or if player B thinks he has reasonable chances of winning, player B should not only accept the cube, but double back immediately before B’s next roll. Why? Answer: If B accepts the cube, then B has nothing further to lose by doubling back. One way or the other, the match will be over if player A wins the 3-0 game, so B should turn the cube one more time and maximize his chances of winning the match. This is another reason why player A should be cautious with the cube when up 3-0 in a 5 point match.