Doubles positioning is all about how you and your partner move around the court. Many players seem to wander aimlessly, with no clear plan. It’s common to hear phrases like, “I’m just going to stand here and see what happens,” or “Where should I be?” But with a grasp of basic doubles strategy, you can confidently make smart decisions about where to stand and how to move, maximizing your chances of success.
The Three Essential Doubles Positions
During a doubles rally, you’ll find yourself in one of three basic positions: attacking, defending, or fighting for the next attack. Each situation calls for a specific and effective formation, giving you and your partner the best chance to dominate the point.
Attacking Formation: Controlling the Net
When you’re on the offensive, you should adopt a formation that puts one player in the rearcourt and the other near the front of the court. This allows for a strategic and efficient approach to hitting those powerful shots. The player in the back will cover shots aimed towards the rearcourt, continuing to play smashes or drop shots, while the player near the net will cover replies aimed at the net or midcourt. This player is responsible for making those quick kills or strategic shots that force the opponents to lift the shuttlecock again, giving you another chance to attack.
Defensive Formation: Covering the Court
When your opponents are on the attack, you must adopt a side-by-side formation to ensure you cover the entire width of the doubles court. It’s crucial to have this coverage, because a well-placed smash, or even a well-timed drop shot, can easily end the point if your court is not fully covered. To avoid this, you and your partner should stand a step back from the middle of the court, providing the necessary reaction time to reach a smash. Be cautious about staying near the net, as this position leaves you vulnerable to a powerful smash.
Fighting for the Attack: The Transition
When both teams are vying for the attack, they often start in a side-by-side position. As one team gains the advantage, one of their players will confidently move forward to claim the front of the court, signaling the beginning of their attack. It’s this dynamic shift that often determines the outcome of the point, and understanding how to transition smoothly from defending to attacking is crucial for success in doubles.
