A net shot in badminton is a shot hit close to the net that just clears the opposite side and drops down sharply, making a return extremely difficult. Much like a drop-shot in tennis, net shots are particularly useful when the opponent is positioned in the rearcourt, leaving him little time to reach the shuttlecock before it hits the ground. There are several types of net shots that can be attempted during game play.
Traditional Net Shot
The most common form of net shot requires the player to hit the shuttlecock while at its apex as it crosses the net, using either a forehand or backhand. Lunge forward toward the shuttle and extend the arm to keep the racquet positioned high. By keeping the racquet face parallel to the ground, the shuttle will bounce off the racquet and fall sharply downward into the opposition's frontcourt with a tumbling motion.
Hairpin Net Shot
A hairpin net shot is similar to a traditional net shot, except that the shot comes from below and close to the net, with the shuttle rising and barely clearing the net, then dropping sharply down the other side. The flight of the shuttlecock resembles the outline of a hairpin. In order to successfully complete a hairpin net shot, the player must slice her racquet upward, giving the shuttle just enough lift to clear the net.
Net Kill
A more aggressive type of net shot is the net kill. This shot is similar to the spike in volleyball, where a softly hit shot hangs over the net, allowing the player to strike it hard and drive it into the ground for an easy score.
The approach for a net kill is similar to the net shot, except that the racquet approaches the shuttle from above and strikes downward, instead of placing the racquet head parallel to the ground and letting the shuttle strike it gently. Because of its aggressive approach, the chances of hitting the shuttle into the net are increased.
Net Lift
A net lift is different from a net shot, in that it is used primarily as a defensive shot, rather than a scoring attempt. The goal is to clear the shuttle with an underarm motion, intended to force the opponent into the backcourt. The approach to the shuttle is the same as a net shot, but the swinging motion is different, driving the shuttle far over the net and creating a bit of deception.
Incorrect Technique
It is important not to grip the racquet too tightly or stiffen the arm when preparing to make a net shot. If the racquet and arm are too tense, the shuttle will likely bounce higher over the top of the net than desired, giving the opponent more time to recover and make a play on the shuttle before it begins its downward trajectory, potentially resulting in a net kill. The goal is to hit a relaxed shot that just clears the net before tumbing downward.
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