Kochi: Star Shuttle Ashwini PonnappaThe 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medalist in women’s doubles says she is not a fan of badminton’s new 15×3 scoring system, saying she believes the diet version robs the sport of the drama and intensity that make it so compelling. The All India Senior Badminton Ranking Tournament kicked off at the Kochi Regional Sports Center on Tuesday, the first time this format has been introduced in the domestic circuit to ensure a seamless transition for Indian badminton players. The Badminton World Federation plans to launch the 15×3 scoring system globally from January 2027.In this format, all games will be played on a best-of-three basis using a rally points scoring system, with each game going to 15 points instead of 21 points. A traditional half-time break will now take place when the leading player or pair reaches eight points.“The beauty of the 21-point system is its ebb and flow. It allows for momentum shifts, creates drama, and allows for comebacks,” Ponnappa told toy She and Satish Karunakaran won their first mixed doubles match at the Regional Sports Centre, defeating Farhan Mohammad and Meera Nair 15-8, 15-10.“Some of the greatest matches in badminton lasted at least 90 minutes and the longest were over 160 minutes. These are the matches that people remember,” Ponnappa explained.The Badminton World Federation plans to introduce a version of this diet to reduce match time, limit player fatigue, reduce physical exertion and create faster-paced matches to suit the ethos of modern broadcasting. Ponnappa, 36, believes the sport’s governing body has missed an opportunity by failing to innovate and instead choosing to make changes to a tested format.“If you feel like the exercise is becoming too physical, add another rest period,” Kurgi explains. Ponnappa said authorities should retain the 21-point system in Tour 1000 events and trial a 15-point system in some lower-ranked events.“Rallies are harder. Who wants to see a badminton match end in 20 minutes?” Ponnappa argued. Ponnappa acknowledged that players have no choice but to adapt and embrace the new normal.“Here’s the thing. The sooner players adapt to the new rating system, the better for them,” she added.
