Strategy
Can a receiver of the serve position themselves at the side of the table to receive the serve or do they have to stay behind the table as the server must position him/herself? I play against a fellow who has very long arms and likes to position himself at the side of the table. He plays that position quite effectively, sending a cross court return that is difficult for my partner to get. I might experiment and try a variation if it is legal, but I haven't because I assumed it was illegal.
Ron
Hi Ron,
You are allowed to stand to the side of the table when receiving.
Left handers will often position themselves on the side when returning so that they can use their forehand to make the return.
When playing penhold players it is important to remember to first analyse your opponent as you would if they used any grip. What are their strengths and weaknesses? A common weakness of penhold players is their forehand block especially against a slow spinny topspin. Their backhand may be a weakness if they use the traditional style, or you may wish to explore the crossover point if they are using the reverse penhold backhand.
Watch NowBecome a free member to post a comment about this question.