Cue Ball in Hand - Viking Cues Tip of the Week with Mike Roque, Author of "Build Your Game"

Cue Ball in Hand

“These opportunities are golden, so make the most of them.”

-Shari Stauch

WHEN YOU HAVE the luxury of ball–in–hand, you have to take full advantage of it. It gives you an opportunity to place the cue ball anywhere you want. You can set up an easy shot with natural position for the next ball. However, be careful—you are not out of the woods yet.

Don’t miss an easy shot or dog shape with ball–in–hand. Excitement can lead to placing the ball and shooting too quickly. Don’t let your mind jump ahead to the next ball.

Ball–in–hand takes you out of your normal table routine. In the blink of an eye, you have more options to consider and that can disrupt your pre–shot routine. So be aware of the situation. Once you’ve decided on your first shot and placed the cue ball in position, step back and go through your entire pre–shot routine.

Besides your shot rhythm and tempo, you should also consider the shot carefully. Is position guaranteed, or is it questionable? Can you run out or should you play safe and use the opportunity to break up a nasty cluster?

Regarding shot selection and positional play, follow shots are best, although stun shots are a close second. Both of these shots make it easy to control the cue ball.

Ball–in–hand shots look easy, but don’t get fooled. Set it up right!

Love our Tip of the Week with Mike Roque, you can purchase your own copy of his book "Build Your Game" at the BEBOB Publishing Website at http://bebobpublishing.com/