We would like the pivot to lie on this line so that we can take-off along the rush line toward the pioneer on hoop 3. It means that we will get a straight rush to hoop 3 even if our take-off is not quite the correct length. If we leave the pivot where it is we will be taking off across the rush line and a small error in length can result in a difficult cut rush to the hoop. A suitable track for the pivot is indicated in the figure. It is always desirable to play 'narrow' croquet strokes where the two balls travel in a similar direction rather than 'wide' where they travel away from each other.
Narrow strokes are much easier to play successfully.
There is the possibility of an unintentional roquet, and anyway the reception ball has to pass very close to the peg. Not an ideal position therefore to take croquet from. The slight weakness with this stroke is that we are driving black across the rush line on the pivot. However given that a stop shot is required from this position there will be good control on the black. We are now getting close to home.