Kuala Lumpur – A proposed shift to a 15×3 scoring format in badminton is drawing criticism from within the sport, with former Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) high-performance director Datuk James Selvaraj warning it could ultimately be detrimental to the game. Selvaraj voiced his concerns following the announcement of the recent scoring system, arguing it deviates from established principles and could negatively impact player development and match quality.
The 15×3 format, meaning a match is won by the first player or team to reach 15 points with a two-point lead, and best of three games, represents a significant departure from the traditional rally-point scoring system currently used in international competition. While proponents suggest it will lead to faster-paced, more exciting matches, Selvaraj believes the change is ill-conceived.
“This new format… it’s a gamble,” Selvaraj stated, according to Scoop.my. “Badminton has evolved over decades with a scoring system that rewards consistency and strategic play. To suddenly change it so drastically risks undermining those core elements.”
Selvaraj’s critique centers on the potential for increased luck and reduced emphasis on endurance. In the current 21-point rally scoring system, players must demonstrate sustained performance throughout a longer match. The 15×3 format, he argues, could lead to shorter rallies and a greater reliance on quick bursts of aggression, potentially favoring players with explosive power over those with more refined tactical skills.
The shift in scoring also raises concerns about the impact on player training regimens. Coaches may be forced to prioritize speed and attacking play over the development of defensive skills and stamina. This, Selvaraj fears, could lead to a homogenization of playing styles and a decline in the overall quality of competition.
“We necessitate to be careful about making changes simply for the sake of novelty,” Selvaraj cautioned. “Badminton is a beautiful sport with a rich history. We should be focused on enhancing its strengths, not experimenting with potentially damaging alterations.”
The debate over the 15×3 scoring format comes at a time of ongoing discussion about the future of badminton. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has been exploring various ways to make the sport more appealing to a wider audience, including changes to the scoring system and match presentation. However, Selvaraj believes that any changes should be carefully considered and based on thorough research and consultation with players and coaches.
Selvaraj’s comments echo a broader sentiment within the badminton community regarding the need for stability and careful consideration when implementing changes to the sport’s fundamental rules. While innovation is important, many believe that preserving the core principles of badminton is essential to its long-term success.
The implementation timeline for the 15×3 scoring format remains unclear. The BWF has not yet announced a specific date for the change, and further testing and evaluation are expected before any final decision is made. However, Selvaraj’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of hasty or ill-considered changes to the sport.
The former BAM high-performance director has previously been vocal about issues within Malaysian badminton, including criticizing a proposed RM300,000-RM500,000 exit penalty for players leaving the national setup before their contracts expire. He described that proposal as potentially “career-threatening” for young players, highlighting his consistent advocacy for athlete welfare and the long-term health of the sport.
As the badminton world awaits further developments regarding the 15×3 scoring format, the debate sparked by James Selvaraj’s concerns is likely to continue, underscoring the importance of careful consideration and collaboration in shaping the future of the sport.
The next major badminton event is the upcoming Sudirman Cup, scheduled to grab place in Suzhou, China, from May 14-21, 2026. It remains to be seen whether the 15×3 scoring format will be implemented for this tournament, or if further testing will be conducted before a wider rollout.
What are your thoughts on the proposed scoring change? Share your opinions in the comments below.
Worth a look
