returning side spin chop serve

What is the best way to return a backhand or forehand sidespin chop serve served to my backhand?  When I try and return, the ball hits my bat and flys off the right side of the table, or, dives into the net.  I am a right handed player....

Overall, I am unable to return any type of slice, serve or not.  More often than not, I hit into the net.

Thanks!

Hi,

Don't worry, returning serves can be one of the most frustrating parts of Table Tennis. To become good at returning serves, you need to understand how the spin you opponent puts on the ball will affect the way the ball flies off your bat.

As you describe, the backspin will cause the ball to hit your bat and go down towards the net. The sidespin will cause the ball to hit your bat and fly to the side. So to return a sidespin chop serve, you need to use your bat like a rudder to counter the spin. This means if the sidespin causes the ball to fly to the right, you need to angle your bat to the left. To counter the backspin you need to angle your bat upwards.

If you can, get someone to serve the same serve to you over and over and practice using your bat like a rudder to counter the spin. It will take some time to master so make sure you keep practicing.

Another tip for returning slice serves is to practice your pushing. Take a look at our lessons on the backhand push and the forehand push. The principals in these lessons can be used for returning a backspin serve.

We are planning on making a DVD on how to return serve in 2010 so keep an eye out for it.

Cheers,

Jeff.