Pickleball serving rules in doubles 2023

Mastering the pickleball serving rules in doubles can give you an advantage over your opponents and set the stage for a successful game. pickleball serve rules doubles are not much different from single serving rules. The main difference is that in double pickleball, both players on a team have a turn serving before the other team gets its turn.

However, only one member of the initial serving team is permitted to serve at the beginning of the game. One more additional element is just a server number on the scoreboard because there are going to be two people on each side. So you will see 3 numbers on the scoring board. Your team score, the opponent team score, and the server number. 

Still confused? Let’s dive into the detailed guide.

pickleball serve rules doubles

While serving rules in double is almost the same whether you are playing in single. You will only have a good game if you follow these rules. In this post, we will discuss pickleball rules for serving in doubles:

• Points are scored on the Serve: Pickleball serving rules in doubles, you will get points only when you are serving. The receiving team cannot get points.
• Player on the Right Serves First: The player on the right side will serve first, no matter who wins the toss and must serve.
• Rotate the Sides: The server will change the side with its team member. Each time the serving team wins the rally, the server changes with its partner. Receiving team members will not change their sides. 
• Three Score Numbers: The doubles scores are generally called in three numbers, the server’s score, the receiver’s score, and the server number. 
• Colorful wristbands: Wearing colorful waistbands is another unique rule and is standard, especially when confusing who is serving and to whom and which side on the court. 
• Underhand serve: The server must hit the ball in the air below the waist.
• Drop serve: Another important thing to know is the pickleball drop serve technique. This means you can drop the ball on the ground and hit it when it bounces back.
• Hitting to the service area: You must serve the opposite diagonal opponent. The shot should fall in the service area.
• Serving behind the line: When you are giving the service, you must stand behind the baseline.
• Serve and return of serve should bounce: Any team or player may hit the pickleball after the serve and return of serve, either in the air or after a bounce. It should be noted that the point is over if the pickleball bounces twice.

Pickleball court layout

Before learning official pickleball serving rules in doubles, let’s review the placement and basic court layout from this diagram. 

Baselines:

The baselines are the lines that define the court’s boundaries at each end of the court.

Sidelines:

The sidelines, which indicate the boundaries of the court, run parallel to the net. Pickleball must land on the sidelines in order to be considered in play.

The non-volley zone:

Commonly referred to as the kitchen, this is a 7-foot space on the left or right of the net where players aren’t allowed to step on or strike the ball while volleying. All volleys must be made from behind the non-volley zone.

Course court:

The areas where players serve are known as the “service courts.” Each service court is split into a right and left service box and is 10 feet wide. The pickleball must be thrown into the diagonal service box on the other side of the net by the server, who must be positioned behind the baseline. The centerline, which separates the court into two equal portions, goes perpendicular to the net. The non-volleyball zone and service courts’ boundaries are defined using it.

Pickleball double serving sequence

In pickleball doubles serving rules serving, your team has the opportunity to serve first. At the start, the player on the right side will serve diagonally. If a point is scored, the server can move to the left side to serve again.

But if you don’t score then, the ball will go over to the opponent team, and it’s called the typical term “side-out”.  Along with serving rules for doubles, you may also master the rules for double players by reading Pickleball rules for doubles.

Once both players have served, the serve switches to the receiving team. If a fault occurs on the first server’s attempt, the second server gets to serve. If a fault occurs on the second server’s attempt, it results in a side-out, and the receiving team gains the right to serve.

pickleball doubles serving positions

 First, understand the traditional positioning of players. Player 3 from the right-hand side in the given diagram, who is server 2 for his team, will start to serve. The sequence that other players will notice is different.

Players 1, 3, and 4 should stand behind the baseline, but player 2, who is in front of the server, should stand behind the kitchen line anywhere on his side.  The same is the case when the turn is moved to opponent 1 or 2. Player 2 from the right-hand side will serve player 3.

Player 4 can stand anywhere on his side.  The server team can move back and forth when they score. while the opponent team will stay on their respective sides until the server loses a score. In the event that a point is scored, the server changes sides and starts the subsequent serve from the left/odd court.

After responding to the server, the receiver should move quickly forward in parallel to his partner. On the other hand, serving team players move forward as soon as possible after the third shot, which is the return of the serve.

Once in the kitchen zone, stay there. Do not move back unless it is necessary to return a lob, then return to the kitchen line zone as soon as possible.

Double Bounce Rule

Your serve must travel to the player of your opposite team. According to this rule, the ball should bounce once between the normal zone and the baseline in their service section. When you get service back, the ball must take one bounce before being hit.

You can hit the ball entirely or after one bounce. More than one bounce will be considered a fault, and you will lose your point. 

First and second server selection:

So now it’s a point: how do you know who is server 1 of the team and who is server 2?

It’s very simple, At the start of the game, players decide for themselves who are servers 1 and 2. Once they deceived and announced that, that will not change till the end of the game.

Double serving scoring rules:

The game is played as a best of three. When the match starts pickleball serving rules in doubles serving, the score will always be 0-0-2. Matches don’t start with 0-0-1. So when your team is going to start, server 2 will give the first serve to your opponents, and the third number will be 2.

When a turn is moved to partner, that is, server 1, the third number on the scoreboard will change to 1.  There are some rules by following them you can score,

1. Shots after the ball bounces are allowed 
2. Only the serving team can score points 
3. If the ball falls in the kitchen or non-volley zone, it will be considered a fault of the team and the opposite team will get a point 
4. If the ball hits the center line of the court which is on both sides of the kitchen will be considered.
5. If the ball falls outside the court’s line will be considered out. 
6. If your feet go in a non-volley zone, it will be considered a fault.
7. Both serve and return of serve should bounce.
8. The server team keeps serving until they lose the rally.
9. If the server team loses the rally, the service will go to the receiver team.
10. If the ball hits you, you will lose the rally.
11. The ball may only bounce once on a team’s side. Multiple bounces result in the loss of a point.
12. In the game of pickleball, serving plays to 11 points when it comes to pickleball scoring rules doubles. Some may be played to 15. Before each serve should say the score of the team loudly.

How To Play Pickleball Doubles

Pickleball doubles is an exciting and social sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. If you’re new to the game, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started and enjoy the thrill of pickleball doubles.

1. Gather Your Gear: Our 1st step towards how to play doubles pickleball is to ensure you have the necessary equipment – a paddle, a whiffle ball, and comfortable court shoes. Most importantly, bring a positive attitude!
2. Understand the Basics: Pickleball doubles is played on a court similar to a badminton court, with a net in the center. The game starts with a serve, and the objective is to score points by landing the ball in the opponent’s court.
3. Team Communication: Effective communication with your partner is key. Establish who will cover specific areas of the court and use verbal cues to coordinate your movements.
4. Serve Strategically: The serving team must start the game by serving diagonally to the opposing team. Aim for a deep and accurate serve to gain the upper hand early in the rally.
5. Master the Dink Shot: The dink shot, a soft shot just over the net, is crucial in pickleball. Use it strategically to control the pace of the game and set up winning plays.
6. Stay at the Non-Volley Zone: Players are not allowed to volley the ball (hit it in the air) while standing within the non-volley zone. Be mindful of this rule to avoid mistakes and maintain control.
7. Practice: There is nothing more accurate than practice and experience that can make your game mature and master with the passage of time. So, never leave the practice and collaborate with the team.

Make sure to follow these steps, you will be able to start playing pickleball doubles with the pros as well.

Colour of wristbands

The next unique rule in the game of doubles is the wearing of colorful wristbands. The use of these wristbands is intended to make it easier for both the referee and spectators to identify the players. It is also intended to let the elderly know which player is on duty.

It is recommended that these wristbands come in different colors between players and can also be purchased at online stores.

Pickleball serving rule double challenges

Pickleball doubles Serving rules for beginners can present some unique challenges that players need to be aware of and overcome. Here are some common challenges and tips for dealing with them:

Coordination with a partner: 

Serving in doubles requires coordination with your partner to ensure smooth transitions between serves. Communicate with your partner to establish a serving routine, decide on the serving strategy, and coordinate the timing and placement of your serves.

Dealing with opponents’ returns:

 Serving in doubles also means dealing with returns from both opponents. Be prepared for quick exchanges at the net and be ready to react to the opponent’s shots. Anticipate their returns and adjust your positioning and strategy accordingly.

Pressure to make successful serves:

 With the double-serving rule, there can be added pressure to make both serves count. Stay focused and confident, and trust in your practice and preparation. Don’t be afraid to take risks and mix up your serves to keep the opponents guessing.

Managing nerves:

 Serving is a crucial moment in the game, and nerves can sometimes impact your performance. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, to stay calm and focused during your serves.

Adapting to opponents’ strategies:

 Opponents may try different strategies to counter your serves, such as poaching or positioning themselves differently. Be observant and adaptable, and adjust your serves and overall game plan accordingly.

Benefits of Mastering Pickleball Serving Rules IN DOUBLES

Mastering pickleball serving rules for doubles and techniques can offer several benefits to your overall game. Here are some advantages of becoming proficient in serving:

Enhanced Control of serve

A well-executed serve gives you control over the ball’s direction, speed, and spin, giving you the upper hand and establishing the tone for the rally.

Strategic Benefit:

You may take advantage of your opponent’s vulnerabilities, break up their rhythm, and induce errors by implementing strategic serving methods, giving you an advantage on the court.

Scoring Possibilities:

A strong and accurate serve might result in unimpressive returns from your rivals, giving you the chance to score and take control of the game.

Influence on the opponent:

A powerful serve can put your competitors under pressure, causing them to respond quickly and possibly make errors, giving you an edge in the game.

Conviction Boost:

Your confidence in your serving abilities will increase as you become proficient with the pickleball serving rules in doubles and methods. This will have a favorable impact on your whole game and attitude while playing.

Conclusion

This article helps to know more about pickleball serving rules in double including player rotation, hitting the ball, line instruction to be followed, and some other pickleball doubles rules that help a player master a game by knowing knowledge. You can find the guide about the wristband colors as well.

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