Shots & strokes · Defence & drives · Intermediate · ~6 min
Cross-court block
A block angled diagonally to the far front corner, away from the smasher.
▶ How To Play Cross From A Smash In Doubles — Badminton Insight (YouTube)
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Prescription3 × 20 shuttles · rest 1 min
EquipmentRacket, Shuttles, Badminton court
ImpactLow
FormatNeeds feeder
Tactical use & trade-offs
Makes a smasher in the rear corner travel the longest distance. It is in the air longer and passes closer to the opponent's side, so a poor one can be intercepted.
Technique
| Grip | Backhand grip: from the forehand grip, turn slightly and place the pad of the thumb flat on the wide back bevel (thumb grip). Relaxed until contact. / Forehand grip: shake hands with the handle, the V between thumb and index finger on the top-left bevel, fingers relaxed and slightly spread. |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Defensive stance; racket in front. |
| Contact point | Slightly further in front than the straight block. |
| Racket face | Angled across toward the far front corner. |
| Swing | Short block with a slight across-the-body push. |
| Body & footwork | Low; stable base. |
| Follow-through | Short; recover to the centre. |
Coaching cues
- Angle the face early
- Low over the net
Common errors
- Too flat into the midcourt
- Contact too late
Practice
On your own: Wall angle-blocks to a target.
With a partner: Feeder smashes from the forehand rear; player blocks cross; feeder chases.
Volume: 3 × 12 shuttles.
Safety
- Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, chest pain or unusual breathlessness.