Page "Badminton" Paragraph 54

When defending against a smash, players have three basic options: lift, block, or drive.

In singles, a block to the net is the most common reply.

In doubles, a lift is the safest option but it usually allows the opponents to continue smashing ; blocks and drives are counter-attacking strokes, but may be intercepted by the smasher's partner.

Many players use a backhand hitting action for returning smashes on both the forehand and backhand sides, because backhands are more effective than forehands at covering smashes directed to the body.

It is very good tool to play hard shots which are directed towards the body.