Badminton is a sport that is beloved by many, but it can also be quite complex. It’s important to understand the rules of the sport, including the rules around serving. Serving is an important part of the game and understanding what constitutes an illegal serve can help players ensure they are playing within the rules.
What is a Serve?
A serve is the way a player begins a rally in badminton. It involves hitting the shuttlecock from below waist height and over the net. The rally is then continued until one of the players gains a point. It is important to understand the rules of serving as a fault can be called if the serve does not meet the criteria set out in the rules.
What Makes a Serve Illegal?
There are several factors that can make a serve illegal in badminton. These include:
• Hitting the shuttlecock before it has crossed the net: This is known as a ‘net fault’ and is not allowed. The shuttlecock must cross the net before it is hit.
• Hitting the shuttlecock from outside the service court: Players must remain in the service court when serving. Hitting the shuttlecock from outside this court will result in an illegal serve.
• Hitting the shuttlecock below waist height: All serves must be hit from above waist height. Any serves that are hit below this level will be deemed illegal.
• Hitting the shuttlecock twice: It is not allowed to hit the shuttlecock more than once when serving. Doing this will result in an illegal serve.
• Taking too long to serve: Players must strictly adhere to the timing rules when it comes to serving. Players must serve within a certain amount of time and any serve that takes too long will be deemed illegal.
• Throwing the shuttlecock: The shuttlecock must be hit with a racket and not thrown. Any serve that involves throwing the shuttlecock will be deemed illegal.
Penalties for an Illegal Serve
If a player serves illegally, then the rally will be stopped and a point will be awarded to the other player. This is known as a ‘fault’ and is considered a serious violation of the rules. It is important to take the time to understand the rules of serving and to ensure that all serves are executed correctly.
Conclusion
Serving is an important part of badminton and understanding the rules around serving is essential. It is important to ensure that all serves are executed correctly and that a fault is not called. Knowing what constitutes an illegal serve can help players ensure they are playing within the rules of the sport.