Coin Toss and Choice of Ends

The coin toss determines critical match starting conditions:

**Coin Toss Procedure:**

1. **When to Conduct:**
- Before the start of the match
- After players are ready and present
- In presence of both players and umpire

2. **Who Tosses:**
- The umpire tosses the coin
- If no umpire, players may agree on method
- Must be random and fair

3. **Winner's Choice:**
The winner of the toss chooses either:
- To serve or receive first, OR
- To start at a particular end

4. **Loser's Choice:**
- Makes the remaining choice
- If winner chose serve/receive, loser chooses end
- If winner chose end, loser chooses serve/receive

**Subsequent Games:**
- Players change ends after each game
- Service order alternates each game
- In deciding game (final game of match):
- Players change ends when either reaches 5 points
- Service order continues as established

**Practice Time:**
- Up to 2 minutes practice on table allowed before match
- Players share practice time equally
- Umpire signals when practice ends

**Common Questions:**
- Q: Can player change their choice after toss?
A: No, once declared, choice is final

- Q: What if coin lands on edge?
A: Re-toss immediately

- Q: Can players practice after toss?
A: Yes, up to 2 minutes if time permits

**Live Scoring Note:**
- Ensure toss result is recorded in scoring system
- Record who serves first for accurate game tracking
- Note starting ends for player positioning

The toss is a ceremonial start that ensures fair match conditions.