The Mallet - Spring 1992

Intermediate Level: Deadness Rotation - Ross Robinson The theory of deadness rotation is clearly explained on "Ted & Bob's Most Wanted Croquet Video, Part 11". The understanding of deadness rotation can easily make the game of croquet more fun, and keep your opponent on the defensive. Example: Blue is 3 ball live, Red is partner dead on Yellow, Black is dead on partner Black and Yellow, and Yellow is 3 ball live. Which team has deadness rotation in their favour, and why? Blue & Black have the advantage, because Blue can make a two ball play from the boundary to his wicket using partner Black. After making the hoop, if Blue doesn't get a good rush on Black to the next hoop, Blue can leave the court with Black still on court. Unless Red (partner dead on Yellow) makes a long hit on Black, Black can then join Blue on the boundary, or wherever. Blue can advance one hoop at a time, setting perfect rushes from the boundary, while Red and Yellow have to use risky tactics to get back into the game. This is obviously a very simple example, but by carefully studying the Video, Deadness Rotation will become another arrow in your croquet quiver. - Ross Robinson