Right time for change of bat

Kiran Ponnaluri Asked 13 years ago

Hi,

Is it right to go for a new bat just a week before the tournament?

Is there something called seasoning that applies to TT bats as well? If yes, how long would it take?

I have a Butterfly Michael Maze signature Euro championships bat that I have been using for a year and a half now. The pimples on its surfaces have flattened and a very small piece of rubber has chipped off.

I can still play with it though.

I am not a professional and would like to take your advice.

Thanks,

Kiran

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Kiran,

It is really important to not change your racket a week out form a tournament.  It is a trap that a lot of players fall for, wanting to get a small edge.  It takes a long time to get really used to a racket.  You may be OK with the general hitting after a week but you will not be able to get used to things like return of serve and serving that quickly. The things that require touch will suffer.

After the tournament is the time to try the new racket.