Backhand Banana Flip in doubles

Rob Janssen Asked 10 years ago

Hi coach, 

I recently tried to add the backhand banana flip into my game. But Im only able to do it when I know the next serve will be short with backspin.

And in doubles matches most of the time they serve short with backspin. So sometimes I make a short push, a long push, a sort of forehand flick and a fake flick where it looks like I sort of flick it but there is still backspin on the ball. And just a very few times I use the backhand banana flick and create alot of topspin which most of the times ends in a straight point. But the problem is that my doubles partner is left handed so I have to move far to the right corner of the table with my backhand first and then I have to move quickly backwards and to the left but I’m often too late and Im in the way of my partner.

What can I do to prevent this? thanks

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Rob,

It may be a compromise here and if you really feel that you are getting a benefit out of the backhand return then your left handed partner could stand on the other side.  The other option, is to get quicker with your movement after you make the return so that you get back to the left side of the table and leave the area clear for your partner.