Return of a spin serve

Hans K Asked 16 years ago

Hi jeff, Hi alois,

I play in a club.My friend spins the ball while serving (sidespin).The ball bounces low and spins sideways.It is very low that the ball cant be taken by push or by topspin.If I return it high, he smashes the ball.How do I return such kind of serves

Alois Rosario Answered 16 years ago

Hi Hans,

I know this is hard to believe when you are facing really spinny serves, but there is no ball that is too low to push.  If the ball goes over the net it must then bounce high enoughfor you to play a push.

The key here is to be able to read the spin.  This comes from a lot of play against different serves.  Keep watching what happens when you touch the ball.  See which way it goes and how high.  After a LOT of practice you will be able to adjust your stroke accordingly.  Be patient...

As a guide, if he swings his bat from left to right as you see it, aim to the left and vice versa.

Work at it, it will get better.  It is definitely the most frustrating part of table tennis but also the most enjoyabloe when you learn to do it yourself.