India to Adopt New 3x15 Scoring System in Badminton Tournaments

The Badminton Association of India is set to introduce the new 3x15 scoring system in domestic tournaments starting this July. This change aims to help players adapt to the format before its international rollout in January 2027. Matches will be played to 15 points, enhancing the pace and tactical nature of the game. The new system will be implemented across various competitions, ensuring players gain valuable experience. BAI officials emphasize the importance of this transition for competitive readiness. Discover how this scoring change will impact the future of badminton in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 2, 2026, 17:49 IST

Introduction of the New Scoring Format

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) is set to implement the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) innovative 3x15 scoring system in domestic competitions starting this July. The Yonex-Sunrise All India Senior Ranking Badminton Tournament, taking place at the Regional Sports Centre in Ernakulam from July 7 to 14, will be the first event to feature this new format.

This initiative aims to prepare Indian players for the upcoming international adoption of the scoring system, which is scheduled for January 2027.

Details of the Revised Scoring System

In the updated format, matches will still be played as best-of-three games using the rally-point scoring method. However, each game will now be played to 15 points instead of the previous 21. A two-point lead will be necessary from a score of 14-all, and games will be capped at 21 points, with the next point after reaching 20-all determining the winner. This shorter format is anticipated to enhance the speed of matches, facilitate momentum changes, and emphasize tactical accuracy and swift decision-making.

Implementation Across Domestic Events

The 3x15 scoring system will be applied in major domestic competitions, including Zonal Championships, Domestic Ranking Tournaments, and National Championships across all age categories. This approach aims to provide players, coaches, and technical officials with valuable experience in the new format before its international launch.

Sanjay Mishra, the General Secretary of BAI, stated, “To ensure consistency in competition and better preparation, we have decided to extend the implementation of the 3x15 scoring system. This will help all stakeholders, including players and coaches, to become accustomed to the new format well ahead of its global rollout by the BWF in January 2027.”

Match Procedures Under the New Format

With the new scoring system, the mid-game interval will occur when a player or pair reaches eight points. Players will also switch ends during the third game, followed by a 60-second break. The 120-second interval between games will remain unchanged, and the winner of the previous game will continue to serve first.

This scoring system will be utilized in all Zonal Championships and Domestic Ranking Tournaments for categories ranging from Under-11 to Senior and Masters competitions.