Opening roll 5-2: two builders down
Play 13/8 13/11 to bring two checkers down from the midpoint.
Why 13/8 13/11
5-2 brings two checkers from the midpoint: 13/8 (safe) and 13/11 (a builder). The blot on the 11-point is only hit by direct 6-5 type rolls from your opponent's back checkers and is a useful builder for next turn.
Splitting with 24/22 13/8 is also played and is close.
Alternatives
13/11 13/8
The same play written the other way round.
What to aim for next
- Builders on 11 and 8 aim at your 5 and 4-points.
Not sure about the notation? Here is how to read moves like 13/8 13/11. Practise the opening against the computer: play a game and turn on hints to compare your moves.
Questions
What is the best opening move for 5-2 in backgammon?
13/8 13/11. Play 13/8 13/11 to bring two checkers down from the midpoint.
Are there other good ways to play an opening 5-2?
13/11 13/8: The same play written the other way round.
Can 5-2 be rolled as a reply instead of an opening?
Yes. As a reply the best play depends on how your opponent opened, but the opening play is usually a sound starting point.
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