08/12/2014 

By: Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor    

Undoubtedly a hot topic of conversation with the table tennis fraternity is the introduction of the plastic ball.

Many will accept the change as inevitable, being seen as another step forward for the sport; however, there are those will be intrigued by the change and quite correctly would like questions to be answered.

In order to answer queries and perhaps for the doubters to lay the mind at rest; a document entitled “The New Plastic Balls - Questions and Answers” has been published by Dr. Torsten Küneth, ITTF Equipment Committee Member in charge of table tennis ball improvement.

Regular Updates
The document highlights the fact that regular updates regarding approved plastic balls will be available on the dedicated ITTF Website Table Tennis Balls Page detailing the brands available.

Gradually Disappear
All World title events henceforth will use the plastic ball but other events may continue with the celluloid ball which it is anticipated will gradually disappear from the scene; the document explains how to differentiate between the celluloid and plastic ball when purchasing.

Furthermore, items such as tolerance levels, materials, improvements and procedures are all detailed.