illegal service?

Dave Berkon Asked 15 years ago

I recently played in a tournament and during a match, my opponent intentionally served the ball using the back of his hand. Is this a legal serve? Thanks

Alois Rosario Answered 15 years ago

Hi Dave,

Technically it is as long as it only hits his hand once and it doesn't also hit his bat.

It is not something that will hold up for very long though.  The rules says that up to your wrist is part of the bat.  But it is very difficult to hit the ball with the back of your hand and only hit it once.  It often hits your hand twice on the way through or also hits your bat.  This is considered a double hit and illegal.