What is the difference between the I formation and the Australian formation?

In the I formation the net player starts in the middle and moves left or right after the serve. In the Australian formation both players start on the same side, with no movement needed to be in position.

When should we use the I formation?

When the returner keeps hitting good cross court returns, when your serve is not winning many free points, or simply to change the pattern of a match that is slipping away.

The I Formation in Doubles, Explained

4 video lessons

Crouch at the center, signal, and move after the serve.

Quick answer & tips ▾

In the I formation the net player crouches near the center line in front of the server, and the server stands close to the center mark. Before each point the net player signals which way they will move, so the returner cannot tell which side will be covered.

It is a great way to disrupt a returner who is grooving cross court returns, and it helps a team with a slower serve. The Australian formation is a simpler version: both players start on the same side of the court, forcing the returner to go down the line.

Key tips

Agree on simple signals before the match.
The net player stays low so the server can serve over them.
Serve to the middle more often to make the movement easier.
Use it for a few points to change the rhythm, not every game.

FAQ

What is the difference between the I formation and the Australian formation?: In the I formation the net player starts in the middle and moves left or right after the serve. In the Australian formation both players start on the same side, with no movement needed to be in position.
When should we use the I formation?: When the returner keeps hitting good cross court returns, when your serve is not winning many free points, or simply to change the pattern of a match that is slipping away.