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An aggressive net interception where the net player moves across toward the center to intercept the opponent's return.
Definition
A poach is a doubles net-play tactic where one net player (typically the server's partner) aggressively moves toward the center court line to intercept the opponent's return or shot before it reaches their partner. Poaches are high-risk, high-reward tactical plays that can result in easy put-away volleys or, if the returning player anticipates correctly, result in a passed ball or error. Effective poaching requires excellent positioning sense, anticipation, and communication with a partner. In professional padel doubles, poaching is a signature attacking tactic that creates pressure and forces opposing returners into earlier decisions. The key to successful poaching is reading the returner's intentions and committing decisively rather than hesitating.
Origin: Fundamental doubles tactic; terminology evolved from tennis adapted to padel.
Deployed in doubles to intercept returns and seize net advantage.
Read the returner's positioning and preparation. Poach when you anticipate an inside return or when your partner needs help.
The opponent passes you while your partner is left uncovered. Communication and commitment reduce poach failure rates.
Practice drills