Understanding Turning in Squash

Introduction:

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the rules and how to handle various situations during a match is crucial. Turning is an important concept for players, referees, and coaches to understand, as it can potentially lead to dangerous situations on court. In this article, we’ll delve into the concept of turning and what the rules say about it.

Understanding Turning and Shaping:

Turning refers to a specific situation defined by the rules. According to Rule 8.13, “Turning is the action of the player who strikes, or is in a position to strike, the ball to the right of the body after the ball has passed behind it to the left or vice versa, whether the player physically turns or not.”

This definition is crucial because it clarifies that turning isn’t just about the physical rotation of the body. Instead, it’s about the path the ball takes relative to the player’s body. While turning can be an effective way for the striker to continue the rally, it also poses several safety concerns.

In this clip, we see Ali Farag physically turning his body, but the ball remains on the right side of him the entire time. Despite the physical rotation, this is not considered turning according to the rules of squash. The ball has not crossed behind Farag from one side of his body to the other, which is a key requirement for a situation to be classified as turning.

This example highlights an important distinction: the physical act of rotating one’s body is not sufficient to constitute turning in squash. The path of the ball relative to the player’s body is what determines whether turning has occurred.

What do the Rules say?

The Rules of Squash outline the situations that may occur when attempting to strike the ball in a situation where a player has turned and could have made a good return.

  • If the swing was prevented, even though the opponent was making every effort to avoid the interference, a stroke is awarded to the striker.
  • If the non-striker had no time to avoid the interference, a let is allowed.
  • If the striker could have struck the ball without turning but turned in order to create an opportunity to request a let, no let is allowed.

When a situation involving turning occurs, the Referee must always consider whether the action was dangerous and rule accordingly. We at WSO have produced an informative graphic to help referees in their decision-making.

Tips to Ensure Safe Turning:

While turning can be an effective way of continuing a rally, there are several safety considerations. Players can work on this area practically to minimise the risks associated with turning by:

  • Awareness: Develop becoming more aware of your surroundings on the court. This includes maintaining visual or spatial awareness of your opponent’s position, as well as being conscious of your own balance, control, and position. If you don’t know where the opponent is positioned, cannot control the ball, or find yourself off balance after turning, stop and ask for a let. It’s crucial to prioritise safety over continuing the rally. If you’re off balance or out of control after turning, do not attempt to hit the ball.
  • Focus on Safety: Always prioritise safety when deciding if turning on a shot is necessary to play your next shot. If in doubt about whether the shot is safe to play, request a let. Be particularly careful when hitting a ball after turning – ensure you have full control and awareness before attempting the shot.
  • Learn the Rules: Make sure that you know and understand the rules relating to turning so that you can implement them into your game. This knowledge will help you make quick, informed decisions during play.

Conclusion:

This guide provides an overview of turning in squash. In a sport where quick decision-making matters, players and referees must understand the concept of turning and how the rules might affect it. Check out our courses and Resources to learn more about the rules!

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