Returning sidespin serve in center

Ricky Patnaik Asked 10 years ago

What is the best retrun technique if my opponent is putting side spin on his serve. He is serving standing towards the middle of the board and landing very close to center line on my side. If I stand facing my opponent the ball lands and spins toward my left hand side. If possible please suggest an attack technique and also a defensive one.

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Ricky,

This is all about getting good position to play your stroke.  Because they are serving to the middle you need to move one way or the other.  Move to the direction that you prefer, forehand or backhand.  See which feels more comfortable to hit that type of sidespin swinging to your left.  Each person will have their own preference.

Then make a topspin stroke if the ball is long.  If the ball is short you can push the ball, remembering to allow for the sidespin by adjusting the angle of your racket.