The proposal to consider a new scoring system might have come under a lot of criticism from players and coaches across the world, but Badminton World Federation (BWF) today clarified that it is only in the discussion stage and nothing concrete has come up.
The BWF at its Annual General meeting discussed whether an alternative options to the current scoring system is needed to benefit television coverage and make contests more attractive for viewers.
"We are just in a process of discussing the new scoring system. It is a long way to go. We are taking inputs from the players world over and are trying to engage a whole lot of fans also. We are taking into consideration views of all the stakeholders," said said Poul-Erik Hoyer Larsen.
"It is interesting to hold discussions and even the players have agreed to get engaged in discussions," he added.
Even BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund said that it would be "strange" if the world body did not consider making changes for the development of the game.
"We are discussing with players, coaches, administrators, the federations. I think, there is definitely a serious wish for innovation and development of the game. I don't see anything wrong with that. Right now we are just asking people and collecting information. We are consulting our stakeholders," said Lund.
"It would be very strange if we don't look at our rules and regulations and also the scoring system at some time," he added.
There have been three alternative scoring systems proposed to make the game more exciting.
Firstly, two games of 21 (current setting) and the third game to be played for 11 points (two points clear setting; decisive point at 14-all). Secondly, three games of 15 points (setting at 19). And the last option being five games of nine points (setting with two points clear; decisive point at 12-all).
