Equipment:

• Croquet Mallets: Each player or team needs a mallet with a handle and a striking face.

• Croquet Balls: Each player or team is assigned a set of colored balls (typically four colors: blue, red, black, and yellow).

• Hoops (Wickets): A set of hoops or wickets placed in the ground to create the course.

• Stakes: A central stake placed at the center of the course as the finishing point.

• Boundary Flags: Flags or markers to indicate the boundaries of the playing area.

• Measuring Equipment: Measuring tape or similar equipment to set up the course accurately.
  

Setup:

1. Mark the Course:

   • Set up the course by placing the hoops in the ground according to the layout of the course. The standard layout is a double diamond shape, but variations are possible.

   • Place the finishing stake in the center of the course, known as the peg.

2. Assign Colors:

   • Assign each player or team a set of colored balls. Players take turns, with the starting order determined by random selection or a predetermined method.
     

Gameplay:

1. Starting Position:

   • Players start from a designated starting area, typically located near the first hoop.

2. Order of Play:

   • Players take turns hitting their balls in the order determined at the beginning of the game.

   • In a doubles game, teammates take turns hitting alternate balls.

3. Hitting the Ball:

   • Players use their mallets to strike their balls, aiming to pass through the hoops in the correct order.

   • The striking face of the mallet must make contact with the player's ball.

4. Passing Through Hoops:

   • To score points and advance through the course, players must pass their ball through each hoop in the correct order.

   • Players can hit opponents' balls to send them off course or prevent them from passing through hoops.

5. Scoring Points:

   • Players earn points for each hoop they successfully pass through.

   • Additional points may be awarded for hitting the finishing stake or other designated points on the course.

6. Finishing the Course:

   • The game ends when all players or teams have successfully passed through all the hoops and hit the finishing stake.

   • The player or team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
     

Additional Rules and Tips:

• Obstruction Rule: Players are allowed to obstruct opponents' progress by placing their balls strategically on the course.

• Boundaries: Players must keep their balls within the boundaries of the playing area.

• Etiquette: Good sportsmanship and fair play are essential in croquet. Players should respect opponents and follow the rules of the game.

• Practice: Regular practice improves accuracy and strategy.