Potting balls off the cushion or 'doubles' as they are commonly known, can be a useful way of beginning a break when nothing else is available for you to pot. It can also be an attacking shot towards the end of a frame when one successful pot can make all the difference.
The double is most certainly a shot which you should have in your armoury, and one which you should not worry about attempting if circumstances dictate. Although any double can be risky, the rewards can be just as high as the risks involved.

Playing shots such as the double help you to remain positive, sometimes keeping your destiny within your own grasp.

In Figure 1, the 'cross double' is depicted, probably the easiest double available.

In Figure 2 the back double is shown, playing a ball back upon itself towards the centre pocket. This shot can often be played with 'safety in mind'.

Figure 3 shows the 'long double', a full table shot which is extremely difficult to make, but worth a go in certain circumstances

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