How to Read Your Opponent's Eyes and Poach More Balls in Doubles Pickleball

The key to winning many pickleball points isn't just quick reflexes; it's reading what your opponent is about to do before they do it

Defense doesn't have to stay defense in pickleball. One moment you're scrambling to keep the ball in play, and the next you're crashing the net for a put-away.

That's the magic Jack Sock breaks down in this latest point analysis from Selkirk TV, where a defensive scramble turns into an offensive masterclass in just a few shots.

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What Is a 'Poach' in Pickleball?

A poach in pickleball occurs in doubles when one player crosses into their partner’s side of the court to intercept and hit a ball that would normally be their partner’s responsibility. It’s typically done at the non-volley zone (kitchen) when a player anticipates the opponent’s shot and steps across the middle to take the ball early—often volleying it for an aggressive angle or putaway. The goal of a poach is to surprise the opponents, cut off their target, and apply pressure by taking control of the point with a quicker, more offensive shot.

When Defense Becomes Your Best Offense

Ryler DeHeart and Kyle Koszuta were facing off against Will Howells and Jack Munro in what turned out to be one of those action-packed rallies that reminds you why pickleball is so fun to watch. The point starts with a solid drive from the right side, the kind of aggressive shot that puts the other team on their heels.

But here's where it gets interesting. Instead of folding under pressure, DeHeart and Koszuta read the play perfectly and turned the tables.

Reading Your Opponent's Eyes

One of the sharpest observations Sock makes is about anticipation.

When Will found himself in a tough spot and had to pop the ball up from below the net, Ryler was already moving. He didn't wait to see where the ball was going. He read Will's eyes and knew an overhead was coming, which meant a crash opportunity was right there for the taking.

That's the difference between good players and great ones. Great players anticipate.

Why This Point Matters

There are a few lessons baked into this single rally:

• Watch your opponent's body language and eyes, not just the ball. You'll see the shot coming before it happens.
• Stay ready to transition from defense to offense. The point is never over until it's over.
• When you get your chance to crash, commit fully. Hesitation costs you points.
• Overhead puts are tough to finish cleanly, which is why forcing that pop-up is such a strong strategy.

The Energy Matters Too

Sock also loves the celebration at the end of the point. When you pull off a scramble like that, you've earned the right to show some emotion. That energy can shift momentum in a match, especially in doubles where your partner feeds off what you're bringing.