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What is a Runner-Runner Draw?

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Runner-Runner Draw

What Does Runner-Runner Draw Mean in Poker?

A runner-runner draw refers to a scenario where a player requires two specific consecutive cards, one on the turn and another on the river, to complete a drawing hand. This typically applies to flush or straight draws.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Runner-Runner Draw:

This term is often used in poker discussions or gameplay when a player is on a weak draw that requires two perfect cards to improve, such as needing two hearts to complete a flush after the flop with only one heart in hand.

In-Game Example:

You hold 56, and the flop comes A92. To make a spade flush, you need the turn and river to be both spades. Hitting the 3 on the turn and 4 on the river completes your runner-runner flush draw.

Strategy / Tips:

  • Best Practice: Consider pot odds and implied odds before chasing a runner-runner draw. Only pursue when the potential reward outweighs the risk.
  • Common Mistake: Overcommitting chips on a low-probability draw, especially in multi-way pots where the chances of success are diminished.
  • Pro Tips: Use runner-runner draws to disguise strong hands if the situation allows, capitalizing on opponents who underestimate your holding.
  • Differences playing over the table vs online: In live games, physical tells might give away an opponent’s weak draw. Online, use betting patterns to deduce strength or weakness.

Alternative names:

Backdoor draw

FAQs:

Q: How often do runner-runner draws succeed?
A: Runner-runner draws are low probability, generally around 4% to complete on both the turn and river.

Q: Are runner-runner draws common in tournaments?
A: They’re not common due to their low odds, but they can occasionally swing the momentum in pivotal hands.

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