Drops · Advanced
How to play the counterdrop in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, low front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the counterdrop.
In short
Consider the counterdrop when you reach the opponent's drop early and balanced while they remain behind or begin to leave the corner. Keep the ball short and make the opponent reverse direction or cover the front again.
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 low front wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted short drop target; the recovery zone anticipates the likely reply.
Blue shows the representative arrival or alternatives converging on one strike. Yellow shows the straight or angled outgoing path for the counterdrop. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- You reach the opponent's drop early and balanced while they remain behind or begin to leave the corner.
- 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 behind, moving out of the front corner or preparing for a lifted reply.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Keep the ball short and make the opponent reverse direction or cover the front again.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- Another counterdrop
- A straight lift
- A crosscourt lob
Follow-up: Hold a compact forward position and read the opponent's racket for another short ball or lift.
Where do I recover?
Clear the corner and recover just forward of the T without crowding the opponent.
Common mistake
Counterdropping while late or stretched and leaving the ball easy in the middle.
Safety
Give the opponent direct access and room to swing in the confined front corner.
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.