How does the expedite system work?

The expedite system stops games dragging on (Law 2.15 of the Laws of Table Tennis, ITTF Statutes 2026):

• When it starts: after 10 minutes' play in a game, or at any time if both players or pairs ask for it. It isn't introduced if at least 18 points have been scored in that game.
• Restarting: if the ball is in play when time is reached, the umpire stops play and the player who served that rally serves again. If the ball isn't in play, the player who received in the previous rally serves.
• Once it's on:
  • each player serves for 1 point in turn until the end of the game; and
  • if the receiver makes 13 correct returns in a rally, the receiver wins the point. The assistant umpire or a separate stroke counter counts the receiver's strokes.
• It doesn't change the serving and receiving order set for the match.
• Once introduced, it stays on for the rest of the match.