Reading and Returning Side spin

Harendra Sahu Asked 9 years ago

Hi Sir,

I am able to read and return backspin nicely. However reading and returning side spin is always a trouble.

I don't know how to place the bat in case of side spin in order to hit controlled shot that server cant take (Specially in case of left hand player. I think bat angle in case of left hand is exactly opposite to right hand)
The problem of direction of the bat doubles when there is a left handed TT player opponent ( I am a right hand plyaer and can easily read right hand)

Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Harendra,

The principles are the same as returning from a right hander.

The key is getting enough practice against a left hander's serve. Because you haven't seen that serve very often you are finding it more difficult.

Find a left hander and get them to serve to you as often as you can.

← Racket Topspin with new bat →

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Judging the Length of a Serve

A really important skill in table tennis is to be able to judge if a serve will be short or long. If it's short you won't be able to take a full swing at the ball and hence will need to use either a push or a flick to return the ball. However, if it is coming long then you can make a topspin attack. In this video we give you some tips to help you judge the length of the serve and hopefully this makes you a better returner.

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Harendra Sahu Posted 9 years ago

Thanks a lot sir for answering my question. Could you please guide how to read side spin and how to tilt the TT bat to take the spin properly.

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago
Hi Harendra,

It may take time but adjusting the angle means just tilting it one way or the other to counteract the spin.

We have a good section on the site that will really help, the Receiving Secrets section which is part of our Premium membership. This goes through the principles that I mentioned above.