Badminton scoring system set for revolution
(Reuters)
Updated: 2005-12-11 19:49

LONDON, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Badminton is to experiment with the biggest change in the sport's history.

It would mean an end to points being awarded only to the server and games would be played best of three, up to 21 points (3x21), instead of best of three, up to 15 (3x15), or up to 11 (3x11) in women's singles.

At present a player has to win back the service before he or she can score any points.

Under the proposed guidelines a netted serve would cost a point, not just loss of serve, and in doubles when a player loses serve, the serve would immediately pass to the opposition.

At present both players serve before it is passed over.

Supporters of the new system say the game would have more flow and be more attractive to TV and sponsors. Critics prefer the "slower-burn" of the traditional method.

During a weekend session in Kuala Lumpur, the International Badminton Federation decided to trial the new system at all its events from February 1.

Paisan Rangsikitpho, events committee chairman, said a final decision on whether to permanently implement it would be made in May.

In 2002, the IBF adopted a 5x7 system but within a year traditionalists forced a reversion to 3x15.

Badminton, an Olympic sport since 1992, has a huge following in Asia and is also popular in parts of Europe, particularly Denmark and Britain.