In response to recent interest expressed by our players who competed within the 2017 Metro Challenge, I would like to share some information and tips on behalf of Xudong Tang (MTTC President; Competition Manager) regarding the effects of short/long pimple and anti-spin rubbers.

In general, both long pimple and anti-spin rubbers produce much less traction than “normal” rubbers, and they produce a similar response. The following tips provide advice on how to approach players using these rubbers:

1. Check your opponent’s rubbers before the match. Of course, we are not able to remember all of the names of those rubbers available within the market, and we would not have a ruler handy to measure the length of the pimples, however, a very thin sponge or no sponge is a good indication of long pimples (LP) or Anti-spin.

2. If you forgot to check, don't stress. Because of the thinner sponge or no sponge at all, the sound when it hit the ball is distinctly recognisable – just like you hit a ball with a bare racket. Most likely you can pick it up during the warm up.

3. If your opponent, a shake-hand player, uses only one side of his or her rubber during warm up, be careful, because they might be hiding a secret from you (LP/Anti-spin rubber).

4. As soon as you recognise one such rubber, try to remember the colour of it (thanks to ITTF for this advantage). This is very important!!! when you are playing against a player who twiddles/spins his or her racket.

5. 3rd ball attack opportunity – Serve with back spin to the LP/Anti-spin side, if pushed back, there will be no back spin on the incoming ball, (only weak top spin, to be precise) you can hit or even smash it.

6. Serve long and fast to the LP/Anti-spin side (spin is not critical here), unless chopped back, you will have another 3rd ball attack opportunity now.

7. Long rallies – if you are not very confident of your top spin skills, here is a simple routine you can use against LP/Anti-spin rubbers,
a. You – top spin/hit
b. Your opponent – block with LP/Anti-spin
c. You – push to the LP/Anti-spin side
d. Your opponent – push with LP/Anti-spin
e. Repeat from (a) to (d) until either of you miss the return

8. When balls have been chopped back by LP/Anti-spin the curve/trajectory of the 2nd bounce on the table will be shorter than usual, so ensure that you move closer to return the incoming ball.

9. To return balls that have been hit or smashed back using LP/Anti-spin rubbers, you will have to lift up your shot a bit when you hit them back.

10. If you are playing against these rubbers remember to keep your eyes open, concentrate and good luck!