Just have this query about receiving serve for doubles. Obviously, the receiver has to stand in the diagonally opposite box. But how about the partner? Can the partner stand anywhere in the court? Can the partner stand fully in the receiver box as well? I had a quick look through the rule book but nothing obvious came up to help.
Anywhere that is not distracting, not in front of the receiver, and inside the court. 9.5 In doubles, during the delivery of service (Law 9.2, 9.3), the partners may take up any position within their respective courts, which do not unsight the opposing server or receiver.
Don't see why not. But a significant disadvantage arises when the opponent serves a flick or drive serve... then all manner of chaos will ensue when the rear player avoids getting steam rolled by the receiver.
Excellent! Just needed to check. I have met a Danish player who has been telling me a few tips for doubles. Seem a bit crazy but if you have good communication with your partner, the weird factor can initially put off the opponent. Won't say more otherwise I won't have any sneaky tricks against you pesky young and fast players in VRC.
Not sure what you mean. I am only referring to the receivers. The receiver doesn't have a partner who is serving in the same point.
Hmmm, what other sneaky tricks you have up your sleeves to take advantage of noobs? Perhaps like serving from the doubles wide service line to the receiver's backhand rear court T?
Haha... but it still works on noobs even up to this day. But really, I don't see what kinda advantage there is for the receiver's partner to stand directly behind him. Especially if the empty side of the court he's supposed to cover is his backhand side.
Tactocal reasoning I don't think any receiver's partner would stand directly behind the receiver. But good double players usually stand centrally in order to be able to reach all positions equally - otherwise, they'd open up the receiver's side. Observe the current world No 1, Lee Yong Dae: