Badminton is a racket sport that has gained immense popularity over the years. It is a great game for both singles and doubles, as it requires a lot of skill and strategic play. When it comes to doubles, there are some specific strategies that can help you to return a serve effectively. In this article, we will discuss how to return a serve in badminton doubles.
Understanding the Basics of Serving in Badminton Doubles
Before we get into how to return a serve in badminton doubles, it is important to understand the basics of serving in doubles. When playing doubles, the server must hit the shuttle over the net and into the opponent’s court. The server must ensure that the shuttle does not land outside of the court or in the middle of the net. The server must also keep in mind that the shuttle must pass the non-volley line in order for the serve to be considered legal.
Knowing the Different Types of Serves
In badminton doubles, there are four main types of serves. The first is the high serve, which is hit to the back of the court in order to give the opponents less time to react. The second is the low serve, which is hit lower than the high serve and is meant to force the opponents to reach down to return the shuttle. The third is the flat serve, which is hit with a flat trajectory and is meant to put pressure on the opponents to hit a powerful return. The fourth is the lob serve, which is hit with a high trajectory and is meant to give the opponents less time to react.
Strategies for Returning a Serve
Now that you understand the basics of serving in doubles, let’s discuss some strategies for returning a serve. The first strategy is to take a step forward as soon as you see the shuttle coming over the net. Taking a step forward will give you more time to react to the shuttle and will also give you the opportunity to hit a stronger return.
The second strategy is to always keep your eyes on the shuttle. Keeping your eyes on the shuttle will help you to track its trajectory and will also help you to find the sweet spot to hit your return.
The third strategy is to not be afraid to hit a powerful return. Hitting a powerful return will give you the opportunity to take control of the rally and put your opponents on the defensive.
The fourth strategy is to not always hit the shuttle to the back of the court. Hitting the shuttle to the side of the court or to the middle of the court can give your opponents less time to react and can also create unexpected angles.
The fifth strategy is to stay calm and focused. Badminton doubles can be an intense game, but it is important to stay calm and focused when returning a serve.
Conclusion
Returning a serve in badminton doubles can be a daunting task, but with the proper strategies and practice, it can be done effectively. Understanding the basics of serving, knowing the different types of serves, and using the strategies discussed in this article can help you to return a serve effectively in badminton doubles.