The Magic of Deception

Nothing beats the feeling of completely confusing your opponent with a shot and leaving them stranded on the court. On the other hand, it can be embarrassing if you're the one who gets it. In badminton, deception refers to playing a shot in a way that makes it difficult for the opponent to predict the result of your shot based on your stroke and/or body movement. A brief explanation is provided below on how deception is produced, along with the benefits of utilizing it in a game:

• The Benefits of Using Deception: A well-executed trick shot can completely mislead your opponent, trapping them on the court. In this situation, the adversary can delay their movement for a little second longer as they take notice of your shot. Before you've even played a shot, opponents may advance towards it in anticipation of it. In order to respond to your actual shot, they must alter their motion. They are under pressure to move into a better position and get ready for your next shot as a result.
  
• Singles Vs Doubles: Deception can be more successful when playing singles as a winning strategy because it is relatively easier to mislead one opponent compared to two. In singles, the player has to cover the entire court alone, and once they are caught out by a deceptive shot, they come under immediate pressure. However, in doubles, if one opponent is fooled, their partner may provide cover, particularly in the rear court where they have more time to react. The disguised drop shot is a commonly used deceptive technique in doubles, but deceptive strokes can also be seen in the front or midcourt areas of the badminton court.
  
• Learning to Play a Deceptive Shot: Building a solid foundation in footwork and basic shots is crucial. Being technically proficient in your fundamental movements and strokes means that you can approach your shots with a consistent technique, regardless of the specific shot you are playing. For instance, the preparation for an overhead shot, such as a clear, smash, or drop, involves the same basic movement towards the shuttle and racket stroke. Getting to the shuttle early gives you more options for shot selection. For instance, at the net, if you reach the shuttle above the tape, you can choose to kill it, drop it, play a net shot, or go crosscourt. This uncertainty about your shot selection forces your opponent to wait and react to your shot, as they are unsure of what you will do. These two points naturally create deception in your game. It's not a deliberate attempt to deceive your opponent, but rather a result of your consistent movement, early shuttle retrieval, and shot technique. This natural deception enhances your creativity in playing deceptive shots.
• Common Deceptive Shots in Badminton: Basic shots in badminton have the potential to be deceptive, and here are a few commonly observed deceptions:

1. Deceptive overhead shots: Overhead shots, such as drop shots in doubles, can be deceptive. Additionally, clears in singles can also be made deceptive by using variations in technique and change of pace.
2. Hold and flick: Mostly used in singles, the hold and flick shot can be executed from the mid or forecourt. The shot is held slightly longer before striking the shuttle, creating deception. Taufik Hidayat is known for using this technique.
3. Double action: This technique, effectively utilized by Peter Gade, involves playing two shots in one motion. The first shot is a fake to mislead the opponent, followed by the actual shot played in a different direction to create deception.

In badminton, deception is most effective when you are in control of the rally and setting the pace of the game. When your opponent is under pressure, they are more likely to react hastily, trying to regain control of the rally by reaching the shuttle earlier. This rushed mentality makes them more susceptible to deception. Deception is a crucial aspect of a badminton player's skill set, but it should be used in conjunction with a solid foundation of basic shots. Deception complements your shot repertoire and cannot be fully utilized without first mastering the fundamentals of the sport and incorporating natural deception into your game.