Badminton turns `emotional’

VIJAYAWADA, OCT 19: The good news for badminton players around the World is that there is no need to suppress their emotions any more on ...

VIJAYAWADA, OCT 19: The good news for badminton players around the World is that there is no need to suppress their emotions any more on court. They can unleash their histrionics in any which way they can.

They can pump their fists, throw a towel, perform a high-five and can exhibit their emotions in any form on the court, similar to their counterparts in other games and sports like cricket, football and tennis.

In a bid to make the game market-friendly and more media-savvy, the International Badminton Federation (IBF) at its meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, recently, agreed to allow the players to show their emotions.

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The court officials committee and the council of IBF wholeheartedly agreed that this new ingredient will add spice and excitement to the game, thus enabling it to reach more spectators and attract media patronage.

The meeting also discussed as to how to turn the players into `stars’. The delegates felt to help players develop a `personality’, it is imperative to allow them to emote onthe court.

Regarding the presentation of the officials after a debate, it was agreed to allow the umpire to wear a red jacket or another distinctive colour to ensure that he stands out.

Though some COC members were in favour of brighter colours, the umpires in general were happy with navy blue and grey. No comments were made on red colour for referees.

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The question as who should fault the server for delay was discussed. It was agreed to amend the IBF log of decisions (L16:7;RTCO 5.2) so that only the umpire shall call fault, not the service judge.

The stalemate over the badminton venue at the Athens Olympics 2004 is likely to end as the Games organising committee is planning to allot a disused aircraft hanger.

Police personnel seen to control the situation during a massive protest over the statehood demand and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, in Leh on Wednesday. (ANI Video Grab)

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