Types Of Squash Shots
In squash, there are various types of shots that can be employed strategically during a match. Understanding the different shot options and when to use them can greatly enhance your gameplay. Here are some of the most common and effective squash shots:
Drives: Drives are powerful shots hit straight and low along the side walls. They are used to keep your opponent deep in the court and create opportunities to attack. Drives can be hit with pace and accuracy to force your opponent into defensive positions.
Drops: Drop shots are delicate shots played with finesse to make the ball land softly near the front wall, close to the tin. Drops are effective for catching your opponent off guard and forcing them to cover more court area. They require good touch and control to execute accurately.
Boasts: Boasts are shots that are played off the side walls to change the direction of the ball. They can be hit low, medium, or high, depending on the situation. Boasts are useful for taking your opponent out of position and creating open spaces on the court.
Lobs: Lobs are high shots hit to the back of the court, making the ball travel over your opponent's head. Lobs can be defensive or offensive, depending on the situation. Defensive lobs can give you time to recover and regain court position, while offensive lobs can put your opponent under pressure and force them to retreat.
Volleys: Volleys are shots played before the ball bounces on the floor. They require quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. Volleys are advantageous as they allow you to maintain control of the rally and put immediate pressure on your opponent.
Crosscourt shots: Crosscourt shots are played diagonally across the court from one side to the other. They can be used to change the angle of the rally and create opportunities for attacking shots. Crosscourt shots can also be used defensively to move your opponent out of position and buy yourself time.
Kill shots: Kill shots are aggressive shots hit with power and pace to finish off a rally. These shots aim to make the ball bounce twice before your opponent can reach it, ideally hitting the nick (the joint between the side wall and the floor) to make the ball virtually impossible to return.
Straight drops: Straight drops are drop shots hit straight along the side wall, making the ball hug the sidewall and land near the front wall. They are effective for catching your opponent off balance and creating difficult shots to retrieve.
Remember, shot selection should be based on the situation, your opponent's positioning, and your own strengths. Practice these shots consistently to improve your accuracy, control, and decision-making on the court. By incorporating a variety of shots into your game, you can keep your opponent guessing and gain the upper hand during matches.