When the ball goes toward the side-line the net player on that
side goes in close and toward the line. His partner falls
slightly back and to the centre of the court, thus covering the
shot between the men. If the next return goes to the other side,
the two men reverse positions. The theory of court covering is
two sides of a triangle, with the angle in the centre and the two
sides running to the side-lines and in the direction of the net.

Each man should cover overhead balls over his own head, and hit
them in the air whenever possible, since to allow them to drop
gives the net to the other team. The only time for the partner to
protect the overhead is when the net man "poaches," is
outguessed, and the ball tossed over his head. Then the server
covers and strives for a kill at once.

Always be ready to protect your partner, but do not take shots
over his head unless he calls for you to, or you see a certain
kill. Then say "Mine," step in and hit decisively. The matter of
overhead balls, crossing under them, and such incidentals of team
work are matters of personal opinion, and should be arranged by
each team according to their joint views. I only offer general
rules that can be modified to meet the wishes of the individuals.

Use the lob as a defence, and to give time to extricate yourself
and your partner from a bad position. The value of service in
doubles cannot be too strongly emphasized since it gives the net
to the server. Service should always be held. To lose service is
an unpardonable sin in first-class doubles. All shots in doubles
should be low or very high. Do not hit shoulder-high as it is too
easy to kill. Volley down and hard if possible. Every shot you