Pickleball is a fun and fast sport. It is easy to learn, but the scoring can be confusing. This guide will help you understand how to score in pickleball doubles. We will explain the rules simply. You will learn how to call the score and keep track during the game.
Credit: pickleballkitchen.com
What is Pickleball Doubles?
Pickleball doubles means two players on each team. You play with a partner. The court is the same size as singles pickleball, but teamwork is very important. Each team tries to win points by hitting the ball over the net and into the other team’s court.
Basic Rules for Scoring in Pickleball Doubles
Here are the key points to remember when scoring in pickleball doubles:
- Only the serving team can score points.
- The game is played to 11 points, but a team must win by 2 points.
- You must call the score out loud before each serve.
- The score has three parts in doubles.
The Three-part Score
In doubles, the score has three numbers. They tell you important information about the game:
| Number | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Number | The serving team’s score. | 4 (the serving team has 4 points) |
| 2nd Number | The receiving team’s score. | 3 (the other team has 3 points) |
| 3rd Number | Which server is serving (1 or 2). | 1 (the first server on the team is serving) |
For example, if the score is 4-3-1, it means the serving team has 4 points, the other team has 3 points, and it is the first player’s turn to serve on the serving team.
How to Start the Game
At the start, the score is called as 0-0-2. The number 2 means the second player on the starting team will serve first. This is a special rule in doubles to make the game fair.
How the Serve Works in Doubles
Each player on a team serves before the other team gets to serve. Here is how it goes:
- Player 2 on Team A serves first.
- If Team A wins the point, Player 1 serves next.
- If Team A loses the point, the serve goes to Team B.
When the serve switches to the other team, the player who serves is always player 2 on that team.
How to Call the Score
Before each serve, the server must say the score out loud. The order is:
- First, say your team’s score.
- Next, say the other team’s score.
- Finally, say which server you are (1 or 2).
For example, if your team has 5 points, the other team has 2, and you are the second server, say “5-2-2.”
When Do You Score a Point?
You can only score when your team is serving. If your team wins the rally while serving, you get one point. If the other team wins the rally, your team loses the serve.
So, points only come from your own serve. This is different from some other sports.
Switching Servers on Your Team
Each player on your team gets to serve before the serve goes to the other team. Here is how:
- The first server starts serving from the right side.
- After winning a point, the server moves to the left side and serves again.
- If the server loses a point, the next partner serves from the right side.
If both players lose their serve, the serve goes to the other team.
Serving Position Rules
When serving, you must stand behind the baseline. The serve must be underhand and hit below the waist. The ball must go diagonally to the other side of the court.
The ball must bounce once on the receiving side before the players can hit it in the air (volley).
When Does the Game End?
The first team to reach 11 points wins. But, the team must win by at least 2 points.
If the score is 10-10, the game continues until one team leads by 2 points.
Summary of Key Points
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Score is three numbers | Serving team score – Opponent score – Server number |
| Only serve team can score | Points only come when you serve and win the rally |
| Serve order matters | Both players serve before the other team serves |
| Score must be called out loud | Say the score before every serve |
| Game ends at 11 points | Must win by 2 points |
Tips for Keeping Score Easily
Keeping score in pickleball doubles is easier with practice. Here are some tips:
- Always call the score before you serve.
- Remember the three numbers: your team’s points, opponents’ points, and server number.
- Use a scorekeeper if possible, especially when learning.
- Watch how others call the score in matches or videos.
- Practice with a friend to get used to the rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
New players often make these mistakes:
- Calling the wrong server number.
- Not calling the score loudly enough.
- Scoring points on the receiving team’s serve (not allowed).
- Serving from the wrong side of the court.
- Forgetting the two-point lead rule to win.
Be patient. The scoring system becomes clear with time.
Why Does the Score Have Three Numbers?
The third number shows which partner is serving. This helps players know who will serve next. It also shows who has the chance to score points.
This rule is unique to doubles and helps keep the game fair and organized.
Credit: masspickleballguide.com
Practice Scenario
Imagine your team is serving. Your score is 6, the other team has 4, and you are the first server. You say:
You serve and win the point. Now your team has 7 points. You move to the left side to serve again. You say:
You serve and lose the point. Now it is your partner’s turn to serve. He or she serves from the right side. You say:
If your partner loses the serve, the serve goes to the other team. They will start with their second server.
Final Thoughts
Scoring in pickleball doubles may seem hard at first. But it is simple once you learn the steps. Remember:
- Only the serving team can score points.
- The score has three parts: your points, their points, server number.
- Call the score before every serve.
- Serve order changes after points are lost.
- Game ends at 11 points with a 2-point lead.
Practice these rules and enjoy playing pickleball doubles with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Score In Pickleball For Beginners?
Score points in pickleball by serving and winning rallies. Call your score aloud before each serve. Only the serving team can score. Keep track using three numbers: serving team’s score, receiving team’s score, and server number. Play continues until a team reaches 11 points with a 2-point lead.
What Does The 2 Mean In Pickleball If The Score Is 5 4 2?
The “2” in pickleball score 5-4-2 shows which server on the serving team is serving. It means the second partner serves.
How To Keep Track Of The Score In Pickleball?
Keep track of pickleball score by calling three numbers: serving team’s score, receiving team’s score, and server number. Only the serving team scores points. Call the score aloud before each serve to avoid confusion. This method ensures clear and accurate scoring in doubles matches.
What Are The 10 Rules Of Pickleball Doubles?
The 10 rules of pickleball doubles are: serve underhand, serve diagonally, ball bounces once on each side, no volley in non-volley zone, score only on serve, call score aloud, serve rotates each side, two points to win, win by two points, and switch sides after each game.