Strategy and Technique

Dear Sir,

I have questions regarding 2 challenges I am facing:

• Strategy:

I play with OX Long Pimples in my backhand. As Long Pimples players are scarce where I paly, I myself don't get much practice against them. Though I myself being a Long Pimples player and have a good understanding of the concept of Long Pimples but I have difficulty facing them in tournaments.

Could you suggest few specific different strategies to use in matches against them that I myself being a long pimples player can use. 

• Technique:

I have developed quite a bit of control in my backhand OX LP. However I used to block topspin with it away from the bounce close to the body. Recently I changed it to perform chop block at the bounce and the results/consistency improved.

However for those slow topspin and loops which drops close to the net towards my BH, I am unable to reach to the bounce in time (if I am not predetermined which is bad). Previously for these balls I used to step significantly backwards, let the ball drop after reaching its top and then chop/slice it heavy with LP (However, most of the time it resulted in high and shallow close to the net return). 

Kindly guide me on what to do in this scenario.

Thank You

Hi Rajat,

Let's go through your queries one by one to help you improve your gameplay as a Long Pimples (LP) user. 

Strategy Against Other LP Players Playing against other long pimples players can indeed be tricky, especially due to the rarity and unpredictability in their playing style. Here are a few strategies you might find useful:
Mix Up Your Spin and Speed: Varying your spin and speed can confuse your opponent, just as the LP confuses regular inverted rubber players. Use your LP to chop but also mix in occasional no-spin pushes and fast attacks to disrupt their rhythm.
Attack Aggressively When Possible: Often, LP players have a more defensive style, which gives you opportunities to take the initiative. Use your forehand or even your LP-side to surprise your opponent with sudden attacks, especially on balls that are safer to hit (less spinny, higher, etc.).
Control the Rally: Try to dominate the placement of the ball, making it difficult for your opponent to create effective returns. Employ wide angles and depth variation to stretch them out and create openings. 
Understand LP Behavior: Since you also play with LP, leverage your understanding of how different strokes affect the ball when played with LP. Use this knowledge to anticipate and counter your opponent's possible returns.

Technique for Handling Slow Loops with LP Handling slow topspins and loops, particularly those close to the net, can indeed pose a challenge. Here’s how you can approach this:
Positioning and Anticipation: Work on improving your footwork and anticipation. Reading the opponent’s setup early can give you that crucial extra moment to position yourself optimally.
Adjusting the Stance: For slow loops that drop near the net, instead of stepping back, stay close and use a more upright stance. Try bending your knees more rather than leaning back, which allows for better reach and control over the table.
Soft Hands on Contact: When you chop block such balls, keep your hands soft to absorb the incoming spin and speed. This will help in controlling the return better and keeping it low over the net.
Practicing Specific Drills: Incorporate drills that focus on returning short, spinny loops with your LP. You can use a robot or have a training partner generate these specific balls repeatedly. Focus on refining your technique and developing a more instinctual response.