Counter backhand sidespin

Hello,

Recently I came to Japan for a year of study abroad and started practicing with the club at my school. The players here are much more experienced than me so sometimes it can get a bit discouraging during practice. In terms of basic blocks and footwork strokes- I have no problem with. Then there is this one right-handed player whose backhand generates almost minimal topspin but a lot of sidespin and it would be very difficult to read how strong the spin is. By the time the ball bounces on my side of the table it just flies wide out (I'm a lefty).

What do you suggest for getting used to and getting comfortable in receiving such stroke? And since it is a primarily sidespin shot, how should the bat be angled?

Thanks.

Hi Wilson,

What a great opportunity you have to be in Japan and training.

Against the right handers backhand sidespin topspin the first thing is to try and practice against him as much as possible.  Secondly watch the ball all the way.  This will give you a split second more time to react.

When you hit that ball you need to turn your wrist back slightly to compensate for the sidespin. So angle your bat more towards your left.  His sidespin will naturally drag the ball to your right.