To poach in doubles

In tennis, poaching is a strategy that can only be used in a doubles match. The term “poaching” refers to the return volley of the player closer to the net when their opponent’s shot was intended for the player closer to the baseline. It is often a tactic used to strike back before an opponent has the chance to reset or collect themselves to return the shot.

As a net player, you have to catch your opponents by surprise when employing the poaching strategy. If they were to see you brace yourself or tense in preparation to counter, they would easily be able to anticipate your next move. This will dampen the effectiveness of the swing.

Poaching is most often used as a counter-serve, but can sometimes be effective throughout play.