What is third ball?

Rajesh Sawant Asked 14 years ago

Hi Jeff,

Can you please explain what is third ball? And third ball attack?

Also please explain me How do I can return heavy top spin shot? I tried with technique which you had explained in one of your video(cushion grip) but thats not work and ball goes away off table. PLease explain in brief

Thanks,

Rajesh Suhas Sawant 

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Rajesh,

Third ball attack is making an attacking stroke on the third ball of the rally.  The third ball is counted including the serve.  So the serve is the first ball, the return of serve is the second ball and then the next return is the third ball.

It is an important part of Table Tennis strategy to try to make an attack on this third ball.  It is usually set up by an effective serve that gives your opponent trouble.

To return the heavy topspin ball you can also take a look at our lesson on how to Counter A Spinny Topspin.  This gives you three options to use, the block, punch or counter topspin. If you find the ball is going off the end of the table, adjust the angle of your bat as well as keeping your bat hand relaxed.