Blocking against a smash

Saurabh Unknown Asked 17 years ago

Hi Alois, I want your advice on blocking a smash. On a bit high shot, when the opponent hits a smash, is there any way to block that smash and prevent the ball from landing out of the table?

Alois Rosario Answered 17 years ago

Hi Saurabh,

This is possible but it is very difficult.

The main thing is that you need to have the reflexes to contact the ball cleanly.  Then it is just about getting the angle of your bat right to make the return.  Because the ball is coming down from a great height it will bounce up again quite sharply so there will be enough height on the ball to block the ball down.

It is not something that you should practice too much.  You are better off going back and trying to lob the ball.  It is a much better percentage shot and will keep you in the rally.  Trying to block the ball reduces your percentages greatly.