How to Play Badminton: Rules, Scoring System, Faults and Penalties

Badminton is a sport that has been enjoyed by millions of people worldwide for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, playing badminton can be an exhilarating experience that challenges your speed, agility, and precision. But before you jump onto the court and start smashing shuttlecocks, it’s essential to understand the rules of the game. Knowing the rules not only ensures fair play but also enhances the overall experience for both players and spectators. In this blog, we’ll explore some fundamental badminton rules in a simple and easy-to-understand manner.

So, let’s grab our rackets and get ready to learn!

Objectives of Badminton

The objective of a badminton game is to hit the shuttlecock over the net and onto the opponent’s side of the court without them returning it. Players score a point each time their opponent fails to return the shuttlecock within the boundaries of the court. The first player to reach 21 points (or 30 points in doubles) and have a two-point lead wins the game.

Badminton Court & Equipment

Badminton is played on a court that measures 13.4 meters in length and 6.1 meters in width for singles matches, and 13.4 meters in length and 8.2 meters in width for doubles matches. The court is divided into two halves by a net that is 1.55 meters high at the edges and 1.524 meters high in the centre. The court is marked with lines that define the boundaries of play, including the back boundary lines, the side boundary lines, and the service lines.

Players use lightweight rackets that weigh between 80 and 100 grams and are usually made of carbon fibre or other high-tech materials. The strings of the racket are tightly strung to provide the necessary tension for hitting the shuttlecock with power and accuracy. The shuttlecock, also known as a birdie, is a conical-shaped object with feathers or plastic wings that weigh between 4.74 and 5.5 grams. The shuttlecock is hit back and forth across the net using a combination of power and finesse, with players employing a variety of shots and strategies to outmanoeuvre their opponents.

Badminton Scoring System

The game of badminton uses a rally point system:

• Players can score a point on every serve, whether they are serving or receiving
• In singles matches, players must win 21 points to win the game
• In doubles matches, players must win 21 points or 30 points if the game goes to a third set
• A player must also have a two-point lead to win
• If the score is tied at 20-20 (or 29-29 in doubles), the game continues until a player achieves a two-point lead

Badminton Serving Rules

Serving is very important in badminton as this allows the players to always be in charge of the game and set the pace.

• In badminton, the server must stand inside the service area.
• The server must serve the shuttlecock diagonally over the net to the opponent’s service area.
• The server must make contact with the shuttlecock below their waist.
• The server must ensure that both feet remain on the ground during the serve.
• The shuttlecock must be hit with the racket’s head.
• The server must not touch the net or its supports with their racket or body during the serve.
• If the server is out of bounds or does not clear the net, it is considered a fault and results in a point for the opponent.

In-Game Badminton Rules

Here are the badminton rules for your reference:

• Players must hit the shuttlecock over the net and into their opponent’s side of the court.
• The shuttlecock can only be hit once by each player or team, with the exception of a block shot.
• If the shuttlecock hits the net but lands in bounds, the play continues.
• If the shuttlecock lands on the boundary lines, it is considered in bounds.
• If a player touches the net with their racket or body, it is a fault and results in a point for the opponent.
• If the shuttlecock lands out of bounds or hits the ceiling, walls, or other objects, it is considered out of bounds and results in a point for the opponent.

Faults and Penalties for Badminton

In badminton, there are several faults and penalties that can occur during a match.

Here are some of the most common ones:

• If a player serves or receives out of turn, it is considered a fault and results in a point for the opponent.
• If a player hits the shuttlecock before it has crossed the net or hits it twice, it is considered a fault and results in a point for the opponent.
• If a player obstructs their opponent’s shot or distracts them in any way, it is considered a fault and results in a point for the opponent.
• If a player intentionally delays the game or misbehaves, the referee may issue a warning, point deduction, or disqualification.
• If a player repeatedly commits faults or unsportsmanlike conduct, the referee may issue a yellow or red card, which can result in point deductions or disqualification.

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Conclusion

In summary, badminton is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide for centuries. It’s a game that requires not just physical prowess, but also strategic thinking, agility, and precision. Understanding the rules of the game is crucial to ensuring fair play and making the experience enjoyable for both players and spectators. By learning the fundamental rules, players can navigate the court with confidence and outmanoeuvre their opponents using a combination of power and finesse.