The Badminton World Federation have begun testing the time clock system at the ongoing Indonesia Open in order to curb time wasting tactics and enforce clearer timing rules.
Under the time clock system, shuttlers are allocated 25 seconds between each rally. The countdown begins when the umpire updates the score from the last rally.
At the end of the 25 seconds, the shuttler serving must be ready to serve, while the receiving opponent must be ready in position to receive.
However, there will be instances where the umpire can allow more than 25 seconds depending on their judgement.
Circumstances that could influence added time range from medical timeouts to extra mopping time the court.
During the 25 seconds interval, shuttlers can towel down, hydrate (without asking umpire’s permission) and apply the cold spray.
The time clock system will be tested at every match of this Super 1000 event.
The Indonesia Open is the latest event to trial the time clock system.
It was first introduced at last year’s Australian Open and the Indonesia Masters earlier this year.