Improving consistency of results

Hi Alois,

How to improve consistency of my game. I am a left handed forehand dominated attacking player with occasional topspins from back hand side.

I seem to play very well against the best players in my club and at times I defeat them all.

On the very next day when I play against someone who is below my level my game drops drastically. I go into defence mode and keep playing chops and lose eventually.

How to come out of this situation?

Thanks

Srijith

Hi Srijith,

This is an issue that a lot of players face.  Sometimes it is easier to play against a player that hits the ball cleanly.  By cleanly I mean they hit the ball with pure spin not some sidespin or mishitting of the ball.  It also comes through quite quickly.

Some players cope with this much better than if the ball is coming to them slowly or with awkward spins.

It may also be a matter of anxiety.  It is easier to let your self play your natural game when you are playing better players because there are no expectations on you however, if you are playing someone you are expected to beat you may tighten up.

Another explanation is that those weaker 'looking' players my actually be better players without good style.  Because Table Tennis is not marked on how you play but just if you win points.