Lobs and height · Advanced
How to play the crosscourt volley lob in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, high front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the crosscourt volley lob.
In short
Consider the crosscourt volley lob when you are balanced on the volley and the opponent is committed forward or to one side. Use early contact, height and width to move the opponent 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 high front wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted deep lob 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 crosscourt volley lob. 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 is committed forward or to one side.
- 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 forward or leaning towards the near side, leaving the opposite high backhand channel open.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Use early contact, height and width to move the opponent into the far back corner.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- An opposite-side straight length
- A defensive boast
- An overhead interception if the width is poor
Follow-up: Hold the T, watch for the overhead and prepare to attack a weak back-court reply.
Where do I recover?
Remain balanced near the T without following the diagonal flight.
Common mistake
Using insufficient height or width and offering a comfortable volley.
Safety
The high crosscourt line must clear the opponent safely.
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.