Poaching is one of the most impactful tactics in doubles. For the uninitiated, poaching is when the net player moves across the center of the court to intercept a shot—usually a return of serve—that would otherwise go to their partner.
It’s a proactive move that requires communication, anticipation and bravado. But when done correctly it puts pressure on the opponents, disrupts their rhythm and puts you in an imposing position.
Here are some tips to help make the poach a winning move:
Call the Play
Whether with hand signals—such as an open palm behind the back—or communicating verbally before the point, make sure you and your partner are on the same page. Confirm where the serve is going and that you’re planning on crossing. This avoids confusion and lets the server know they’re responsible for any down the line return that gets passed you.
Set It Up with the Serve
A well-placed serve is the table-setter for a successful poach. Targeting the center service line (serving down the T) is often the most effective option. This puts the ball in the middle of the court in the direction you’re moving toward, and it’s a challenging shot for the returner to direct up the line behind you. A body serve that jams the returner can also force an attackable reply. Wide serves can prove worthwhile, especially if the server possesses a tricky one or it’s to the opponent’s weaker side. Just be judicious in its usage as the wide serve creates more angle to hit cross-court and more opportunity to go up the alley.
