To get the best from your doubles, you have to follow some basic rules:

• Forming a good pair. The first step is to form the best compination of players. There are a lot of compinations but few of them will give the best result. It is not as simple as making a pair with #1 and #2 players. There are players who are both in playing style and in personality suited more for doubles than singles. It is believed that one left-handed and one right-handed player can compose a good pair. The reason is that they can cover most of the table with their forehand. Two defensive players are also a tricky pair which can have good results.
• Know each other well. Every player has his own style of play. He has something special in his own play, and the player must know his partner's play thoroughly. The first point to be worked out as a pair is footwork and get acquainted to shots of the partner. Since they must hit alternatively, players must move so that the partners can make next easy shots. Footwork is more important in doubles than in singles. The correct positions are the key to produce sucessful shots.
• Two-to-One concept. The players must practice together so that they can think and play like one player. It needs a lot of hard practice to get this. Teach them to make organized, consorted play as if they were one player. Teach them to take easy the partner's errors. This is one of the most important factors which will bring out the best from the partner. When "Two-to-One concept" is attained, this will become as normal as in singles.
• Choose a leader. Every pair needs the player who makes the judgement and takes the game on his shoulders at the crucial moment. Expept this, his role is to lead the pair, makes a plan and gives advices during the match.
• Chance maker, point getter. The different role of each player of a pair is necessary element in getting the points. One has to play the role of "chance maker" returning difficult shots back on the table, and setting up a shot for the partner. The other should be a "point getter" who terminates the rally with a hard shot.

© Denis TT World

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• Table tennis tips - Choosing the right partner in doubles

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