Cue ball circles the perimeter via three cushions. Long-short-long route. Most cinematic pattern in carom; Diamond System's flagship.
Around-the-Table — Setup
Cue ball at one corner. First object ball mid-table. Second at opposite corner — cue ball must navigate around them.
Stroke and english
Medium-firm, 1 tip running english, follow-through complete. Aim 1 diamond past first cushion target.
When to use it
Direct shot blocked by intervening balls. Or when system math suggests around-the-table cleaner than direct.
Common mistakes
Insufficient pace → cue ball dies before third cushion. Wrong english → bounce angle off.
Success rate & practice
Diamond System variant: starting + target diamond formula gives precise aim.
Pro players who use it
Universal in pro play. Caudron, Sang Lee, Zanetti all use this when blocked.
Practise this position
Open it directly in 3ball — adjust ball positions, stroke, and english to match your real-table setup.
Open in 3ball →Related positions: