Doubles Playing Strategy

Archel Taneka Sutanto Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois and Jeff,

I'm just about playing doubles with my friend. What strategy should I played, should I know my friend's serve and his playing style?

I also have watched doubles matches. Some of them use finger codes. Should I use finger codes too?

Thanks a lot!, Archel

Jeff Plumb Answered 12 years ago

Hi Archel,

With doubles, it does help if you play with your partner a lot. You will get use to what serves they do and this will help you play the third ball.

When you are hitting the ball you should think about your placement and how it will help your partner for their next shot. Often playing down the line will help in this area.

Using hand signals is a good idea. You can start by using a few different hand signals to tell your partner if you are going to serve backspin, no spin, topspin or sidespin.