High backspin close to net
Strokes and Technique
Vishal Oza Asked 12 years ago
Hello Coach,
I am a left handed player. I face problem when the opponent chops the ball close to the net with height. I have tried pivoting and smashing the ball but I want to know how I can return the ball with my backhand. When I try to do backhand topspin ball goes out of the table. Please help me with this.
Thanks,
Vishal Oza
Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago
Hi Vishal,
This can be an awkward ball. The first thing is to see it as that. Often we see that ball really high and think it is going to be easy. You need to allow for the backspin. Play a backhand topspin but finish a little higher and topspin the ball rather than hitting it flat. Take the stroke slowly at first and then when you get the feel of the ball you can start to hit it faster. See if you can get the ball set up like that in training so that you can practice it.
Thoughts on this question
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Vishal Oza Posted 12 years ago
Thank you Alois for the reply. I will try to topspin the ball and finish little higher.
Vishal Oza Posted 12 years ago
Thanks a lot Pingskills for creating video response for this.
Vishal Oza Posted 12 years ago
This is very common problem with new players and this video will definitely help them.
Jeff Plumb from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago
You're welcome Vishal.
Rory Scott Posted 12 years ago
For high backspin balls close to the net a flat smash works well either with forehand or backhand, depending on the position of the player.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago
As long as you allow for the backspin by opening the angle of your bat.
Rory Scott Posted 12 years ago
Yes.
David Polos Posted 12 years ago
Wouldn't it be easier to just flick the ball
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago
If the ball is just over net height then the flick would be a good option but in this case when the ball is a lot higher, the flick would be an awkward shot. For a really high ball you are better off to try and make a more attacking stroke.