Rules - Time between points
So, how long are you allowed between points?
The rule states that play must be continuous. Whereas in Tennis there is a specific number of seconds you are allowed, the Table Tennis rule is a little more flexible and the success of its enforcement can depend on the quality of the Umpire. The rule is there to stop players deliberately wasting time to gain an advantage.
In most circumstances it is easy to recognise when someone is deliberately wasting time. However different players play at different paces. Some players are very deliberate between points and will have a set routine that takes 10 to 15 seconds. Others will almost seem like they are rushing to get the match over with. Often problems arise when players of different pace match up against each other. One wanting to play immediately and the other wanting to go through their set routine.
The other problem arises when a player sees that the momentum of the match is not with them and then sets about to change that. This is where the umpire needs to take charge and point out to the player that they need to keep play continuous. I am sure this has happened to all of us and I am also sure most of us have tried to take advantage of the time between points to gain advantage.
The ITTF rule 3.04.04.01 states that “Play shall be continuous throughout an individual match”.
