What is a scratch with the cue ball?

Answer 1

In pocket billiards, a scratch is a slang term to refer to a foul where the cue ball either goes into a pocket or leaves the table. After a scratch, the next player gets "ball-in-hand" with the cue ball. This allows them to place the ball anywhere on the table, or, depending upon house rules or if the scratch occurred on the break, placing it behind the head string. In 8 Ball, if the scratch occurs and the 8 ball is pocketed as well, it is a loss of game - under some House Rules, a scratch when shooting the 8 ball is automatic loss of game.

Answer 2

Under the standard rules, in 8 ball, the cue ball may be placed anywhere on the table, often referred to as ball-in-hand, on a scratch unless the scratch is on the break. A scratch on the break, if a legal break, results in the cue ball having to be placed behind the head string (the area that you break from).

Answer 3

In terms of playing pool; it means to 'pot' or 'pocket' the cue ball.

Answer 4

Scratch refers to potting the cue ball. But yes, it is a foul if the cue ball does not hit one of your object balls, hits one of your opponents object balls or hits the 8 ball.

Answer 5

only on a coin-op table