English billiards is a form of billiards played on a 6' X 12' rectangular table with pockets in the four corners and in the middle of the long sides (see Snooker for markings and a diagram).

The game is for two players or two teams. Two white cue balls and a red object ball are used. Each player or team uses a different cue ball; one cue ball has a distinguishing mark (usually one or more black dots).

A single point is awarded for each:

  • cannon (striking one's cue ball so that it hits the other cue ball and the red ball on the same shot)
  • winner or pot (striking the red ball with one's cue ball so that it enters a pocket)
  • loser or in-off (striking one's cue ball so that it hits the red ball and then enters a pocket)

A cannon and a winner may both be scored on the same shot. No score is awarded if a loser is made in combination with a cannon or a winner, and the player's turn ends.

See also