New Delhi, July 2: The Indian Badminton Association (BAI) is set to introduce a new 3×15 scoring system in all its domestic tournaments starting July 2026. This initiative aims to prepare Indian badminton players for the scoring format proposed by the Badminton World Federation (BWF). The change will kick off with the All India Senior Ranking Badminton Tournament, scheduled from July 7 to 14 in Ernakulam, Kerala.
The primary goal of adopting this system early is to provide players, coaches, and technical officials with ample competitive experience before it becomes an international standard in January 2027.
Under the revised rules, matches will be played in a ‘best-of-three-games’ and ‘rally-point’ format. However, each game will now be played to 15 points instead of the previous 21. If the score reaches 14-14, players or pairs must win by a margin of two points. The maximum limit for each game will be 21 points, where the next point after a 20-20 tie will determine the winner.
Sanjay Mishra, General Secretary of BAI, emphasized the importance of familiarizing all stakeholders with the new scoring format before it is implemented at the international level. He stated, “To ensure uniformity in competitions, aid better preparation, and fully acclimatize players, coaches, technical officials, and all stakeholders to the new scoring format, we have decided to advance the 3×15 scoring system. This will help players of all ages adapt and develop their skills in line with the upcoming changes in 2027.”
In addition to the scoring changes, match procedures will also be modified. Mid-game breaks will now occur when a player or pair reaches 8 points instead of 11, allowing for a 60-second break. In the decisive game, sides will be switched. The two-minute break between games will remain unchanged, and the winner of the previous game will serve first.
This new scoring method will be uniformly applied across India’s domestic badminton calendar, including zonal championships, ranking tournaments, and national championships. It will affect all age groups, from under-11 to seniors and masters, ensuring a consistent competitive structure before the BWF’s global changes in 2027.
The expectation is that the shorter format will lead to faster-paced matches, increased game dynamics, and a greater emphasis on strategic play and quick decision-making.
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