Doubles strategy⏱ 2 min read
From Defence to Attack in Doubles
Side-by-side defence is not just survival. Here is how to spot the moment to turn the rally around.
When you lift, the other pair attacks and you defend side-by-side, each covering one half. Good defence is not just getting the shuttle back. It is waiting for the chance to take over.
Set up to defend
- Low, wide stance with the racket in front, usually on the backhand side.
- The player diagonally opposite the smasher covers the cross-court smash; the other covers straight.
- Short steps only. Big steps are too slow to readjust.
Three ways to defend
- Lift high and deep: safe, but they keep attacking.
- Block to the net: draws the attacker forward and can force them to lift.
- Counter-drive flat past the front player: turns the rally if the smash was not steep.
When to turn it around
Look for flat or weak smashes, short drops, or an attacker who is late. Those are your signals to block or drive instead of lifting. The moment you hit flat or down, move forward together into attack.
Key takeaways
- Defend low and wide, covering the straight and cross-court smash.
- Mix lifts, blocks and counter-drives.
- A weak attack is your cue to block or drive and take over.
Enjoying ShuttleScience?
It's free. If it helped your game, you can support it.