Boasts and angles · Advanced
How to play the trickle boast in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, side wall, then front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the trickle boast.
In short
Consider the trickle boast when you are balanced in front and the opponent is behind or anticipating a straight drop. Use a very soft near-sidewall angle to make the ball die close to the same front 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 side wall, then front 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 trickle boast. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- You are balanced in front and the opponent is behind or anticipating a straight drop.
- 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 deep or moving away from the near front corner.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Use a very soft near-sidewall angle to make the ball die close to the same front corner.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- A counterdrop
- A straight lift
- A desperate crosscourt lift
Follow-up: Clear the corner and remain forward enough to cover a counterdrop.
Where do I recover?
Move to a compact forward T position without blocking the opponent's access.
Common mistake
Playing the angle too firmly and sending the rebound into the middle.
Safety
Clear the short direct route from the opponent to the 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.