Boasts and angles · Intermediate
How to play the defensive three-wall boast in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, side wall, then front wall, then third wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the defensive three-wall boast.
In short
Consider the defensive three-wall boast when you are stretched deep with no dependable straight length and extra height can buy recovery time. Keep the rally alive and use the third wall and height to reach the opposite front area.
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 side wall, then front wall, then third wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted short boast 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 defensive three-wall boast. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- You are stretched deep with no dependable straight length and extra height can buy recovery time.
- 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 controls the T and expects a forced straight reply from the back corner.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Keep the rally alive and use the third wall and height to reach the opposite front area.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- An attacking straight drive
- A counterdrop
- A lob from the front
Follow-up: Clear the back corner and expect the opponent to attack if the third-wall rebound sits up.
Where do I recover?
Recover towards the T as time permits, with a slight forward awareness.
Common mistake
Using an attacking low trajectory when the position calls for height and time.
Safety
Clear the back corner before moving through the opponent's route.
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.