Service In Doubles Badminton Rules

In the fast-paced and strategic world of doubles badminton, understanding the rules of service is crucial for any player looking to master the game. Service, or serving, is the shot that starts the rally, and its execution can significantly affect the outcome of a match. The rules governing service in doubles badminton are designed to ensure fairness, consistency, and excitement, making the game enjoyable for both players and spectators.

Basic Service Rules

1. Serving Area: The server must stand in the right service court of their side of the court when serving to the opponents’ court diagonally. The server’s feet must not touch the line or extend beyond it until the shuttle is struck.

2. servidor and Receiver: In doubles, the service is always made from the right service court to the diagonally opposite court. The receiver can stand anywhere in their court, but it is more common for them to stand near the back of the court to allow their partner to cover the net.

3. Server’s Fault: A fault occurs if the server misses the shuttle, hits the shuttle out of bounds, or fails to clear the net. Two consecutive faults by the server result in the loss of serve and the right to serve passes to the opponents.

4. Let and Foul: If the shuttle hits the net but still lands in the opponent’s court, it is considered a “let” and the point is replayed. A “foul” occurs if a player obstructs an opponent or invades their court, which can lead to a fault being called against the offending player.

Specific Doubles Service Tactics

In doubles, the service can be used strategically to target specific weaknesses of the opposing team, such as a player’s weaker smash or their difficulty in handling short serves. The positioning of the server and their partner can also dictate the opponents’ reaction to the serve. For instance, if the server’s partner is positioned aggressively at the net, this might force the receiver to return the serve more quickly or to a specific area of the court.

Tips for Effective Serving in Doubles

• Variety: Varying the type of serve (e.g., short, long, flick) can keep the opponents guessing and prevent them from anticipating the serve.
• Accuracy: Aim for the most difficult spot for the receiver to handle, often near the intersection of the service line and the center line.
• Disguise: Try to disguise the serve by using the same motion for different types of serves, making it harder for the receiver to anticipate the trajectory of the shuttle.
• Partner’s Positioning: The server’s partner should be ready at the net to take advantage of any weak returns or to intercept any attempts by the opponents to attack the serve.

Common Errors and How to Correct Them

One of the most common errors in serving is failing to clear the net, which results in a fault. To correct this, practice serving with a higher arc to ensure the shuttle clears the net but still lands within the opponent’s court. Another common mistake is not standing behind the service line, which can result in a fault. Ensure that your feet do not touch or extend beyond the line until after the shuttle has been struck.

Conclusion

Serving in doubles badminton is an art that combines technique, strategy, and psychological manipulation. By mastering the service rules and practicing effective serving techniques, players can significantly improve their game, create scoring opportunities, and put pressure on their opponents from the very start of the rally. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding and perfecting your service can elevate your doubles badminton experience and contribute to a more enjoyable and competitive game.