Can flick replace the loop

Hatem Tawfik Asked 8 years ago

Hi coach, 

I like the backhand flick and I am much more comfortable with it than the backhand loop and though I am still practicing it (especially against short and even medium or long serves) I am not sure if it can be used against a heavy under spin chop or push. I have to say I miss a lot when I try it against a chop or a push .. but I just wanted to know can I with practice use it for an all offensive game instead of the loop or am I just wasting my time practicing something with limited use ?

Thank you

Alois Rosario Answered 8 years ago

Hi Hatem,

It is difficult to flick a heavy backspin short serve because it is difficult to get enough lift.  You can do it by opening up the angle of your bat.

The other option is to use the Backhand Sidespin Flick.  With this stroke you are not working directly against the backspin because you are coming around the side of the ball.

If the ball is long then you should use a topspin or loop stroke as you have more time and space to make the shot.  The bigger stroke can be more offensive and effective.