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A beginner's guide on playing squash, the tactics, the technique , the rules and how to play
squash safely
Squash is played between two individuals (singles) or two teams of two (doubles) on
a Squash Court.
One player serves to start a rally which proceeds until one player hits the ball out or
down or fails to hit the ball before it has bounced twice.
Squash can be played using a couple of scoring options, traditional (International)
scoring and point a rally scoring (PARS).
Squash Players having a social game can modify the rules to their own requirements.
Return of Serve
International (Traditional)
Point-a-Rally(PARS)
Other options
Play a time limit game of between 25 to 45 minutes with two or three breaks of 1 minute
duration.
PARS is very flexible - players can create their own game play format.
1. Traditional Method - The Server can only score points, and the first to 9 points wins.
2. PARS (Point a Rally) - The winner of the rally wins the point, first to 11 points wins.
Basic Squash Skills
Hold the grip firmly at all times during the swing. Keep a firm
wrist during the swing.
Approach the ball from one side (usually from the side closest
to the centre of the court). Right handed Squash players should
try to play "forehands" on the right hand side of the court and
play "backhands" on the left hand side of the court. (Reversed for left handers).
Hit the ball away from your opponent, making them run.
Hit backhand shots on the backhand side of the court and
forehands on the forehand side.
Hit the ball to the corners and close to the side walls.
Volley during play whenever possible. Return to the centre of
the court quickly each time you make a return whilst watching
the ball.
Once the ball has been struck, it is the responsibility of the striker to clear the way for the
opponent to make a return.
If there is interference in the opponent reaching the ball, the players should play the point
again (this is called playing a LET).
If your opponent is in the way of you making a return or is in danger of being hit in the
process, a “LET” should be played.
Both the striker and the opponent should make every effort to clear the ball or to get to it if
a “LET” is to be played.
If the player hits the ball back to themselves and hits them or goes very close to them, a
“STROKE” is awarded to the opponent, winning the rally for them.
Squash Balls