Question

In badminton, what is the term for changing direction of the shuttle with a quick wrist action?

Answer 1

Answer: Slice

Explanation:

A slice is one of the most important techniques in badminton that allows players to change the direction of the shuttlecock through a quick and precise wrist movement. This technique involves hitting the shuttle at an angle with a cutting motion, which creates a different trajectory than what your opponent might expect based on your body positioning.

The slice shot is executed by making contact with the shuttlecock using a diagonal cutting action of the racket face. Instead of hitting the shuttle straight on, you strike it with the racket moving across the shuttle's path. This creates spin and causes the shuttle to travel in a different direction from where your racket swing initially appeared to be headed.

What makes the slice particularly effective is the element of deception it provides. Your opponent reads your body language and racket preparation, expecting the shuttle to go in one direction, but the quick wrist action redirects it elsewhere. This split-second change can catch your opponent off guard and create winning opportunities.

The slice technique can be applied to various shots in badminton, including drops, clears, and drives. For example, a sliced drop shot will not only land short but also move sideways, making it extremely difficult for opponents to reach. Similarly, a sliced clear can push your opponent to the corners of the court, opening up space for your next shot.

Learning to master the slice requires practice and good timing. The key is to keep your opponent guessing while maintaining control over your shots. Professional badminton players often use this technique to create angles that would be impossible with straight shots, making their game more unpredictable and challenging to counter.