Drives and lengths · Advanced
How to play the attacking crosscourt volley length in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the attacking crosscourt volley length.
In short
Consider the attacking crosscourt volley length when you are balanced on the volley and the opponent has committed to the wrong side or remains behind. Take time away and move the opponent rapidly into the far back corner.
Watch the trajectory
Blue dashed lines show realistic arrivals one at a time. Yellow shows the strike and outgoing path. The opponent and recovery zone provide tactical context. No players or rackets are shown.
Trajectory, in words
- The blue path or paths show how the ball can arrive before the strike.
- The yellow path reaches front wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted deep length target; the recovery zone anticipates the likely reply.
Blue shows the representative arrival or alternatives converging on one strike. Yellow shows the crosscourt outgoing path for the attacking crosscourt volley length. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- You are balanced on the volley and the opponent has committed to the wrong side or remains behind.
- You can reach the strike point in balance rather than forcing the shot.
- You have a clear view, direct access, a safe swing and an unobstructed intended ball line.
Opponent cue
Where should the opponent be?
The opponent is moving towards the near side, leaving the far back corner beyond a well-shaped crosscourt.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Take time away and move the opponent rapidly into the far back corner.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- An opposite-side straight length
- A defensive boast
- A counter-volley if the width is narrow
Follow-up: Re-centre promptly and guard against a straight counter-volley.
Where do I recover?
Recover to a balanced central position without following the diagonal through the opponent.
Common mistake
Forcing the angle while off balance and feeding the middle.
Safety
Use this volley only when the crosscourt ball line and swing are clear.
Sources and review
This is a source-aligned Squash Dog editorial illustration, reviewed 6 September 2026. It represents one useful pattern, not the only valid trajectory, a governing-body endorsement or personal coaching advice.