The Corkscrew Slice
by: Mark Winship @ In Touch Tennis

The slice backhand is a versatile shot and can be put to good use in both an attacking and a defensive situation. If played right, it allows you to hit a low sliding approach shot or a floating defensive ball that buys you time to recover your court position. In particular, there are two distinct types of attacking slice backhand that you would do well to master.

The first involves hitting more around the outside of the ball (the side of the ball facing away from your body) for added control. This is a useful shot if you are looking to hit an accurate approach shot or an angled ball close to the lines. When you get it right the flight of the ball should be straight as an arrow, giving you a great deal of control and accuracy.

The second option involves hitting more towards the inside of the ball. The flight will be harder to control as it will tend to veer to the left, but the spin you impart will not only make the ball skid but will also cause it to break awkwardly to the side. This is a really tough ball to return and is great for forcing a weak passing shot when you have more space to hit into, and for use against players with extreme forehand grips.