Using "I" Formation in Doubles
by: Dave Winship @ On The Line

The "I" formation is becoming more amd more popular in the pro game. It's certainly a useful variation to try when an opponent's return of serve is causing damage and you need to give them something else to think about.

Server's partner squats down low a few feet from the net, right on the centre line. The server takes up position almost right behind him (just to the left or right of the centre mark), such that the two players form a straight line (hence "I" formation).

Having agreed in advance which side each will cover, the serving pair keep the returner guessing as to where the net player will go.

As a rule, serves should be directed straight down the middle or into the body. The returner, figuring that the server's partner is going to move either right or left, may well opt to counter the tactic by returning through the middle. The server must take responsibility for that particular return.

Consider it as a useful extra weapon in your arsenal. Like the Australian formation, where both server and server's partner start the point on the same side of the court, it's best used rather sparingly - something to try when you're behind in a match and you need to change the pattern in the hope of changing the momentum.

Regards.

Dave Winship