says
Fair Play first
IDENTIFICATION OF THE SPONGE IS DUE AND OVERDUE.
To all evidence the whole matter is still unresolved. The rule 3.2.1.3 states that sandwich rubber must be an ITTF approved combination both of sponge and topsheet.
So far there is no practical way for umpire to know if the sponge underneath meets all ITTF standards, which makes the rule just a mockery. It is neither reasonable nor acceptable situation anyway.
It is hoped the proposal, that every factory sponge should be complemented with an ID label, should come in force by the end of the year 2025. Till then, any sponge whatsoever is admissible for sandwich combination.
Here is a proposal drafted by an international expert group of proficient table tennis umpires and referees.
3.2.1.3.1 (Draft)
--An identifying label of uniform pattern (единого образца) shall be mandatory for all sandwich coverings on the backside of sponge layer.
Be happy.
To all evidence the whole matter is still unresolved. The rule 3.2.1.3 states that sandwich rubber must be an ITTF approved combination both of sponge and topsheet.
So far there is no practical way for umpire to know if the sponge underneath meets all ITTF standards, which makes the rule just a mockery. It is neither reasonable nor acceptable situation anyway.
It is hoped the proposal, that every factory sponge should be complemented with an ID label, should come in force by the end of the year 2025. Till then, any sponge whatsoever is admissible for sandwich combination.
Here is a proposal drafted by an international expert group of proficient table tennis umpires and referees.
3.2.1.3.1 (Draft)
--An identifying label of uniform pattern (единого образца) shall be mandatory for all sandwich coverings on the backside of sponge layer.
Be happy.
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