Reverse English Technique — Bend the Bounce

TL;DR: Reverse english (also hold english, outside english) bends the cue ball's post-cushion path inward, creating tight angles unreachable with running english.

Physics in one paragraph

A cue ball spinning opposite to its travel direction slows on cushion contact and 'hooks back.' The cushion converts forward momentum into reverse spin, then friction transfers spin back to direction. Result: a tighter post-cushion angle than running english would produce.

When to use

• Bricole shots needing tighter post-cushion angle
• Around-the-table shots requiring extra 'kick' off the third cushion
• Defensive plays leaving cue ball tucked against a cushion

Setup checklist

1. Strike point: ½ to 1 tip outside center, opposite to desired post-cushion direction
2. Pace: firm — soft strokes don't transfer enough spin to overcome cushion deflection
3. Cue tilt: as flat as possible (vertical tilt = masse, not pure spin)
4. Follow-through: complete; no decel on contact

Common mistakes

• Too much reverse — cue ball 'kicks out' hard, loses position
• Wrong cushion — reverse english most reliable on long rails; short rails amplify error
• Slow pace — reverse english needs energy

Pro usage

Sang Lee was a master of reverse english bricoles. Marco Zanetti uses creatively. Frédéric Caudron blends with system math for surgical precision.