Is ‘the forehand takes the middle’ good advice?
We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Forehand takes the middle’
As good as it sounds, this is bad advice.
What happens when playing with a left handed player? Either both backhands or both forehands will be in the middle, therefore the advice falls apart. Both players will be clashing paddles and fighting over their forehands!
The better advice is…
CROSS COURT TAKES THE MIDDLE or the DIAGONAL PLAYER TAKES THE MIDDLE.
If the player on the even court drives the ball down the middle it is the DIAGONAL players responsibility to cover the middle as the ball is traveling towards them- even when it’s hit down the middle.
This gives a clear understanding between partners who take the middle ball. It’s dependent on which opponent hit the attacking shot down the middle.
Obviously, at any point there are exceptions, if your partner is higher up the court or can cut the ball off early they can poach at any time to cover and protect your team mate. This simple rule once understood by both players should eliminate confusion and missed balls down the middle.
No more will you hear those famous words: I thought you had it?
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