Back spin

In many sports, the concept of back spin is used. This is a kick or throw, after which the ball rotates in the opposite direction as if rolling away from the receiving player. In this case, the Magnus effect is used when the rotation transmits an upward force that lifts the ball.

Back Spin: The Basic Meaning

In cricket, backspin is often unfavorable for batsmen, as it makes predicting the ball’s bounce more challenging after the bowler’s delivery. In this context, the term “underspin” is sometimes used interchangeably with “backspin”– they refer to the same phenomenon. Top spin is an absolutely opposite type of back spin kick.

Back spin is actively used in sports where athletes play with bats or rackets. For example, in table tennis, there are four phases of a backspin curve. Experts note that Asian athletes in this sport most effectively perform this technique, so they often win major tournaments.

In cricket, back spin is considered an attacking technique since bowlers perform it. In tennis or table tennis, this is more often a defensive tactic. Because the ball follows a curved trajectory, the defending player has extra time to reposition before making their next move.

For tennis and cricket players, one advantage of returning a backspin shot is that they can strike the ball before it bounces. In table tennis, however, players must wait for the ball to rebound, which can make returns more difficult and unpredictable.