Playing fast counter hitter

Rama Camatchee Asked 10 years ago

Dear Coach,

My style is to serve short backspin followed by a semi- strong Topspin (provided the ball is long).

However, today I played against a player who has very strong reflex and would return fast and low ball and side to side.

The player does not play any Topspin and returns backspin with a push just above net level.

I lost my matches as the player will rally any Topspin ball with a fast return at net level (but zero Topspin).

What strategy can I adopt against such a consistent player.

Regards

Rama

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Rama,

This type of player relies on your speed to outpace you.  Try to vary the spin and speed of your shots.  Often a slower topspin is more effective than a fast one.  After the slower topspin they may give you a higher ball or a slower ball that you can play faster.

We have a lesson in our Match Strategy section on Playing A Blocker which is what you are looking for.