TENNIKOIT FEDERATION OF INDIA

Indian Rules has vast amendments by the various game developer

Indian Rules

INTRODUCTION: GAME CHARACTERISTICS

Tenni-koit is a game which is played either under daylight or under floodlights. It is played both indoor and outdoor by both sexes. The game consists of both Singles and Doubles, inclusive of Mixed Doubles. Singles is a two-player game, which is played by two players opposing each other. Doubles is a four-player game, which is played by two teams of two players each, which play against each other. In Mixed Doubles, one male and one female shall form one team.

The Court dimensions, height of the net, specifications of the koit, and other playing equipments are the same for Singles and Doubles for both sexes. But for the sub-juniors, the height of the net shall be 1.67 meters (5.6 ft.).

Tenni-koit is a game played by two teams or two players on a playing court measuring 12.2 x 5.5 M. The playing court is divided into two equal courts by a Centre Line. Above this line, a net is placed at a certain height.

The goal of the player is to send the koit over the net, according to regulations, to the opponent’s court. The koit is set in motion through the ‘Service’ by a player by virtue of his winning or losing the toss at the commencement of the first set and sent diagonally to the opponent’s court over the net, and the opponent(s) receive the koit over the net without any fault. The koit remains in play until it touches the floor, walls, ceiling, or any other object or until a player commits a fault. A player shall have five Services in a row, no matter whether he takes or loses the point.

Touching the dead line should be penalized; only overstepping of the dead line is “Line Cross”.

After the score is 20-all or after the 9-rally is introduced, when the stipulated time limit of 15 min. expires, each player shall have only one service in turn.

The team or player who scores 21 points with a minimum advantage of 2 points over its opponent, or in the event of the score becoming 20 each, the team/player who secures the 22nd point first, will be the winner of the set. The team which wins two sets out of three sets wins the match.

Koit is a ring made of a white thin rubber sheet filled with foam rubber. There are two types of championships:

Individual Championship for Singles and Doubles for both sexes and mixed doubles.
Team Championship is played on the basis of the Davis Cup pattern, i.e., two singles, one doubles, and two reverse singles. In the Team Championship, each team consists of five players, one manager, and a coach, as fixed by the Tenni-koit Federation of India from time to time.

These Rules and Regulations for the conduct of matches in the various National and Zonal Championships and all National events shall continue till further notice.

CHAPTER I: PLAYING EQUIPMENTS AND THEIR SPECIFICATIONS

Rule 1: Court and Playing Equipment

1.1 Court Measurements: (See Diagrams 1 & 2) The court shall be a rectangular, hard, even surface made of clay, red sand, concrete, or any other cementing material which enables fast movements and is free from foreign bodies which are likely to cause injury to players. It shall measure 12.2 metres in length and 5.5 metres in breadth. The two lines measuring 12.2M each shall be called the Side Lines, and the other two lines measuring 5.5M each shall be called Base Lines. A line drawn at the center between the two Side Lines shall be called the Centre Line, which shall be directly below the net. This Centre Line divides the court into two equal halves of 6.1 x 5.5M.

1.2 Court Measurement & Koit Specifications (WTF ITR Rule No.1):

For Singles: Length 12.20 metres and width 4.60 metres.
For Doubles: Length 12.20 metres and width 5.50 metres.
Koits: White or Yellow Colour (ITR Rule No. 4), 190 to 200 grams weight, Inner Diameter 11 to 12 cms, and Outer Diameter 18-19 cms. Thickness with a variation of + or – 0.5cms.

1.3 Single-Court: The Single Court is a rectangle of 12.20m in length and 4.60m in width. The two lines measuring 12.20m are called side-lines, and the two lines measuring 4.60m are called base-lines. The line dividing the court into two equal halves of 6.10m in length is called the centre-line.

1.4 Doubles Court: The doubles court is a rectangle of 12.20m in length and 5.50m in width. The two lines measuring 12.20m are called side-lines, and the two lines measuring 5.50m are called base-lines.

1.5 Dead Court: One parallel line drawn on either side of the Centre Line 0.9M away from it shall be called dead lines. The area bound within the Dead Lines and Centre Line is known as Dead Court. The Dead Court shall thus measure 5.5 M x 0.9 M on either side of the Centre Line and overall measure 5.5 x 1.8 M.

1.6 Neutral Zone: The two parallel lines with a distance of 0.9m from the middle of the centerline are called deadlines. The zone from the middle of the center-line to the dead-line measures 0.90m in length and 5.50m (doubles-court) or 4.60m (singles-court) in width and is called the neutral zone. Together for both court halves, the neutral zone has a dimension of 1.80m in length and 5.50m (doubles-court) or 4.60m (singles-court) in width, but counts as unlimited in its width concerning the meaning of Rules. The dead-lines are not part of the neutral zone.

1.7 Zone Lines: The two lines drawn from the centre of the Dead Lines on either side and connected to the centre of the Base Line shall be called Zone Lines. Thus, each zone shall have an effective playing area of 5.2 x 2.75M and overall 5.2 x 5.5M on either side of the Centre Line (i.e., on either side of the net). The Zones shall help see whether all the four players are keeping their court positions while service is taken in Doubles.

1.8 Playing Zone: The zone between the side-lines, the base-line, and the dead-line at each half of the court measures 5.20m in length and 5.50m (doubles-court) or 4.60m (singles-court) in width and is called the playing zone. The side-lines, the base-lines, and the dead-lines are part of the playing zone.

1.9 Restricted or Caution Line: One more parallel line drawn on either side of the Centre Line 3.05 Mtrs away from it, or 2.15 Mtrs from Dead Lines. All Lines shall be of 5 cm width.

Rule 2: Net

2.1 Net: The net is a mesh of 70 cm wide and 6.1 M long, vertically placed over the axis of the Centre Line to divide the playing space into two parts. The net shall be made of 2.5 cm square meshes with a two-fold white cotton canvas of 10 cm wide. Each fold of 5 cm is sewn along the full length of the net over a cord or a flexible rope intersecting the respective Side Line with the Centre Line. Both the side bands shall be considered part of the net.

2.2 Tape: Two tapes of cotton material 15 cm wide & 70 cm long shall be fastened, one on each side of the end of the net perpendicular to the intersection of the respective Side Line with the Centre Line. Both the side bands shall be considered part of the net.

2.3 Antennas: The Antennas are two flexible rods made of solid bamboo, fibreglass, or similar material 1.06M long of 2.5 to 3.8 cm in diameter. The antennas shall be marked with 5 cm bands of contrasting colours preferably red and white or black and white. They are fastened on the outer edge of each vertical Side Band extending 50 cm above the top of the net. They are considered part of the net and mark its side limits.

2.4 Height of the Net: The height of the net shall be 1.8 M and be measured from the centre of the playing court using a Measuring Rod. The two ends of the net (over the Side Lines) must be at the same height from the playing surface and may not exceed by more than 2.5 cm. For Sub-Junior section, the height of the net shall be 1.67 M or 5.6 Ft. (Note: As per WTF specification, the net height is 1.65 meters at the center of the net, measured from the floor, dividing the court into two equal halves).

2.5 Quality and Measures: The net is a close-meshed canvas of cotton or synthetic fibre with a length between 5.50 and 6.10 m (meshed area) and a depth between 0.40 and 0.70 m. In case the meshed area of the net is longer than 5.50 m, the extension beyond the side-lines has to be equal in both directions. The upper edge of the net should have a different colour than the rest of the net.

2.6 Fixation: The net has to be fixed with a cord or hanger at two vertical posts of firm steel, respectively one placed on each side of the court upon the marked or imaginary centre-line with a distance of approximately 30 cm from the side-lines. The posts shouldn’t outrange a height of 1.70 m (measured from the floor) and must be qualified to warrant a strained net.

2.7 The Ring

2.7.1 Material and Quality: The ring is produced of white or yellow solid rubber without air inside and has a plain and firm surface, which qualifies it for fast rotations without losing stability during flight through the air.
2.7.2 Weight and Dimensions: The ring, authorized by the World Tenniquoits Federation, must have a weight between 190 and 220 grams, an inner diameter between 11 and 12 cm, an outer diameter between 17 & 18 cm, and a thickness of 3 cm. The thickness is allowed to vary plus or minus 0.5 cm.

Rule 3: Poles

3.1 Specifications: The poles for fastening the net shall be made of mild steel tubes of 6 cm outer diameter. The thickness of the wall of the tubes may be from 1.2 to 1.3 mm. The height of the poles above the floor level shall be 1.9M. A pulley or hook may be fixed to the top of the poles to secure the top cord of the net. When nets with steel stranded wire are used, suitable sprockets shall be fixed to the poles at an appropriate point for obtaining the required tension of the net and height.

3.2 Placement: The poles should be fixed 45 cm away from the centre of the Side Lines. The poles shall be lowered below ground level to a depth of 60 cm. The poles shall be painted with distinct contrasting colours in bands of 23 cm. White and Black or White and Red are recommended.

Rule 4: Koit and Court Preparation

4.1 Koit Specifications: The koit shall be made of a white thin rubber sheet filled with foam rubber and shall weigh 198 to 226 grams. The koit should be neither too hard to cause injury to the players, nor too soft to get squeezed often between the fingers and palm. The outer dia of the koit shall be 16 cm and the inner dia 10 cm. The thickness shall be 3 cm with a variation of not more than 5 mm.

4.2 Safety Zone: A zone with a distance of minimum 2.00m from the boundary (measured from the outer edge of the side-lines and the base-line) is called a safety zone and has to be marked with a line, a strained band, or a comparable delineation.

4.3 Consistence: The consistence of the Court is allowed to be out of the materials plastics, concrete or other cemented materials, clay, or red sand. It must be warranted that the surface is qualified for fast and energetic movements and is even to avoid injuries.

4.4 Location: It is acceptable to play international Tenniquoits competitions on courts which are placed outdoor or indoor.

4.5 Floodlight: In case international Tenniquoits competitions are conducted outdoors at times with no or not enough daylight, it is acceptable and necessary to illuminate the court with floodlight.

CHAPTER II: DISCIPLINES OF TENNIQUOITS

Rule 5: Disciplines and Competitions

5.1 Age Groups: Competitions as specified in disciplines are only established for one class, which is not age-restricted. Competitions are allowed to be conducted for juniors and seniors. The fixing of the age-restriction for the junior class is done by mutual agreement in the forefront of a relevant event. The senior class is not age-restricted.

5.2 Singles:

5.2.1 Men section – Singles: The discipline men-singles is played by two male players, opposing each other on a single-court.
5.2.2 Women section – Singles: The discipline women-singles is played by two female players, opposing each other on a single-court.

5.3 DOUBLES:

5.3.1 Men section – Doubles: The discipline men-doubles is played by two parties, opposing each other on a doubles-court; each team consists of two male players.
5.3.2 Women section – Doubles: The discipline women-doubles is played by two parties, opposing each other on a doubles-court; each team consists of two female players.

5.4 Mixed-Doubles: The discipline mixed-doubles is played by two teams, opposing each other on a doubles-court. Each team consists of one male and one female player.

5.5 Competitions:

5.5.1 Individual Championships: International Individual championships are conducted for men singles and women singles. The arrangement of individual championships has to take place on the basis of the international Playing Modes and Competition Regulations (Part 1) of the World Tenniquoits Federation.
5.5.2 Team Championships: International team championships are conducted for teams of ten players (five men and five women players) and contain the disciplines men-singles, women-singles, men-doubles, women-doubles, and mixed doubles. The arrangement of team championships has to take place on the basis of the International Playing Modes and Competition Regulations (Part 2) of the World Tenniquoits Federation.
5.5.3 International Matches: International Matches without championship character could be test matches between two national selections or individual tournaments for men-singles and women-singles. The arrangement of such events has to take place on the basis of the International Playing Modes and Competition Regulations (Part 3) of the World Tenniquoits Federation.

CHAPTER III: PARTICIPANTS – DUTIES, RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Rule 6: Registration and Composition

6.1 Each men’s team shall consist of 6 players, one Manager, and one Coach. The women’s team shall consist of 6 players, one Manager, and one Coach. The team shall have at least one woman either as Manager or as Coach. The 6th player shall be eligible to play in Mixed doubles. It is mandatory that all Registered players must play in the championship.

6.2 All players shall be registered with the Tenni-koit Federation of India through their respective State Associations or other affiliated units.

6.3 Only the players recorded on the Score Sheet on the basis of entry forms shall be allowed to participate in the matches. No change shall be allowed on any account.

6.4 One of the players who is registered and entered for the Championship/Tournament shall be appointed as Captain of the respective team.

Rule 7: Players

7.1 Outfit: All players of both sexes shall wear proper uniform consisting of T-Shirts/Jerseys and Shorts and a pair of canvas shoes. The T-Shirts/Jerseys shall be prominently stenciled/painted with Arabic Numerals on the front and back. Shoes must be light and playable with rubber or leather soles without heels. Violation of this provision may lead to disqualification of a player/team from participation in any Championship/Tournament.

Rule 8: Duties of PLAYERS

8.1 Players should accept the decisions of referee(s) with sportsmanlike behaviour.

8.2 Players should make themselves aware of the rules of the game.

8.3 The conduct of the participants should be in accordance with the spirit of fair play and as mentioned below:

8.3.1 They shall show respect and a courteous attitude towards referee(s), opponents, and spectators.
8.3.2 They shall avoid actions and attitudes which are patently aimed at influencing the decisions of the referee or to cover up faults committed by them or their teams.
8.3.3 They shall avoid actions & attitudes aimed at prolonging time-outs or deliberate delays of the game with ulterior motives.
8.3.4 They shall avoid giving overt & covert instructions to players while the game is in progress.
8.3.5 Team Captain: a) The Team Captain is responsible for the conduct & discipline of all the team members. b) During the match, the Team Captain will function as Game Captain while on the Court. He is the only person authorized to ask for any explanation on the application or interpretation of the rules. If the explanation does not satisfy him, he must immediately protest to the referee & his protest is to be registered on the Score Sheet at the end of the match.

Rule 9: Coaches / Managers

9.1 Responsibilities of the Coach:

9.1.1 Prior to the commencement of the Game, he should check the names & numbers of his players registered & recorded on the score sheet & sign. Provision to be made.
9.1.2 He may direct warm-up sessions of his players prior to the match.
9.1.3 During the match, he shall be seated at the nominated place.
9.1.4 Only during the intervals between the sets or time-out may the Coach give instructions to his players without trespassing the boundaries of the Court or delaying the progress of the game.
9.1.5 They are obliged to respect and make their players respect the officials, organizers, opponents, and spectators.
9.1.6 They shall refrain from disputing the decisions of the referees.

CHAPTER IV: GAME INTERRUPTION AND RESULTS

Rule 10: Toss and Warm Up

10.1 Toss is to be taken by the referee outside the court before the commencement of the match.

10.2 Warming up should also be done outside the court.

10.3 Teams are to be escorted by the referee and his assistants.

Rule 11: Game Interruption

11.1 Official Interruptions: Official interruptions of the game are those stoppages of the game that are caused by natural phenomena like bad light, heavy rains, storms etc., and ordered as such by the referee and shall include the time-outs granted by the referee on request by the player/coach as per rules hereinafter mentioned.

11.1.1 Handling of Interruptions: See below.
11.1.2 Interruptions with time-out: Circumstances, caused by a higher force (e.g., heavy weather or breakdown of the lighting), which make it impossible to continue the match in a regular way, lead to an interruption with stoppage of the time (time-out). The interruption has to be signalized and terminated by the organizing staff or the referee.
11.1.3 Interruptions without time-out: Situations, which irritate or hinder a match, but could be cleared immediately within a short time (e.g., a second ring falls into the court area), lead to an interruption without stoppage of the time. The interruption has to be signalized and terminated by the referee while the time is running.
11.1.4 Injuries: Injuries only lead to interruptions with time-out if one of the players is bleeding. The match is allowed to be interrupted by the referee for a maximum of 3 minutes to clean the player and ring from blood or to provide medical care to stop a bleeding wound. Concerning other cases of injuries, the player has to continue immediately or to abandon the match.
11.1.5 Resumption: The resumption of the match after an interruption with time-out must take place in consideration of the already expired time. The time measurement of the remaining time has to be done by the organizing staff or the referee.

11.2 A maximum of one time-out is permitted in each set.

11.3 An interruption shall be granted only on request by the player/coach through the use of respective official signal.

11.3.1 Each time-out shall have a duration of 30 seconds.
11.3.2 One time-out shall be charged to the Team/player who prolongs the interruption after the referee has signaled to resume the game.
11.3.3 A Team/Player shall on no account leave the court during the time-out.

11.4 The Coach may also speak to his Team/Player without trespassing the boundaries of the court.

11.5 After the request of the players, the referee may authorize medical attention to be provided on the Court.

11.6 A Team/Player requesting more interruption than is allowed will receive a warning by show of a Yellow Card.

11.7 In the event of serious injury/accident to a player, the referee shall stop the game and give 3 minutes to the injured player to recover. He may at his discretion restart the match before the expiry of 3 minutes accordingly as the case may warrant.

11.7.1 If the injured player does not recover within 3 minutes, the set and the match shall be awarded to the opponent(s).

11.8 Interruption Faults: a) First Time – Warning b) Repetition – Point/to opponent set/matches as the case may be.

11.8.1 A Team/Player commits a fault when it/he prolongs a time-out after being called to resume the game by the referee.
11.8.2 When he requests a second time-out in a particular set.
11.8.3 When he is not ready to resume the match after having been charged with one time-out.

11.9 Prolonged Interruption during the match: If any unforeseen circumstances prevent a match from being conducted, the referee, the organizers, and the jury, if present, shall decide the measures to be taken to restore normalcy.

11.9.1 On resumption of a match after normalcy is restored, the score will be continued from where it was left prior to the interruption(s). The result(s) of the previous set(s) if any will be intact. In other words, prolonged interruption(s) caused by factors beyond anybody’s control shall not give any advantage to any player/Team.
11.9.2 In the event of unforeseen circumstances or inclement weather etc., the following rules shall be adopted: a) If the interruption is in the first half of the game (first 10 minutes), the game should be replayed from the beginning ignoring the points scored by teams/players. b) If the interruption is in the second half of the game (i.e., second half or completion of first 10 minutes), the game should continue with the scores as they stood at the end of the first half.

Rule 12: Game Results

12.1 Scoring a Point: A Team/Player shall score a point, both positive and negative (i.e., either he may complete a rally successfully and take a point, or the opponent may give a point either by failure to receive and return the koit properly or by committing fouls which are penalized by the referee).

12.2 Scoring of Points (Basic Understanding): Scoring a point is possible in an active or passive way. Scoring actively means the main action, which leads to a point, goes out from the player who wins the point. Scoring passively means the action, which leads to the point, is caused by an unforced fault of the opposing player or party.

12.3 Active Scoring:

12.3.1 A Player who is capable of placing the ring onto the floor of the opposing playing zone without violating the rules of the game scores a point. Each successful action in this sense is awarded with one point by the referee.
12.3.2 A player who is capable of forcing the opponent to commit a fault scores a point. Each successful action in this sense is awarded with one point by the referee.

12.4 Passive Scoring: A player or team, whose opponent commits an unforced fault, scores a point.

12.5 Direct Scoring: The chance to score a point is not dependent on the right to serve. Both sides, the serving side and the receiving side, are capable of scoring the point.

12.6 Winner(s) of a Set: The winner(s) of a set is/are the player/team that scores 21 points first. When deuce is called (i.e., when the score is 20 each), the winner(s) will be the team/player who secures the 22nd point first.

12.7 Match Winner:

12.7.1 The match winner shall be the team/player who wins two sets out of three sets.
12.7.2 If a team gets depleted for any reason whatsoever, the match shall be awarded to the opponent team.
12.7.3 If, after receiving a warning from the referee, a team/player refuses to play, it is declared by default the set and match shall be awarded to the opponent(s).
12.7.4 If a team/player fails to be present on the Court at the appointed time for unjustifiable reasons, the team/player shall be declared in default and the set and match awarded to the opponent(s).
12.7.5 Interval between sets and change of courts: a) Two minutes is the interval time limit between first and second sets, and 3 minutes between second and third sets. During this time limit, change of courts is made. The teams must be formed on their base lines at the moment they are called by the First Referee to resume the match. b) In the deciding set, once a team reaches 11 points, the courts are changed without any delay.

CHAPTER V: PLAYING ACTIONS AND FAULTS

Rule 13: Playing Actions

The koit in play must have an upward direction when released from the hand. Referees must strictly penalize absence of such tendency without fail.

13.1 All matches are decided by best of 3 sets, each set consisting of 21 points. In the event of 20 each, the player/team scoring the 22nd point first wins the set.

13.2 The player is allowed to dive on the ground to retrieve the koit. In such an event, the player must release the koit in the process of getting into the normal position. The player is also allowed to take support from the other hand while getting back to the normal position. (Reason: to add thrilling effect to the spectators. To maintain the fluid motion of the koit exchange. The caution line has no relevance, hence removed).

13.3 In case the points scored by players/teams are equal at the completion of 20 minutes, the game will be extended by another 10 minutes with 5 minutes each half; player/team shall change the court. If the score remains equal at the end of 10 minutes, the game shall be decided by breaking with one point (the player/team securing the very next point will be declared as winner).

13.4 The game is set in motion with the start of Service. The choice of Service/Court by a player or a team is decided by the toss of the coin by the First Referee. The player/team starting Service in the first set shall receive the First Service in the Second set. In the third set, if any, there shall be no toss for the choice of Service/Court. The player/team starting the Service in the first set shall start the Service again in the deciding third set.

13.5 The time limit for each set is 15 minutes. After the expiry of 15 minutes, the server should take the point within 9 rallies failing which the point shall go to the opponent(s).

13.6 The game shall be for 20 minutes duration, and player/s shall change courts after 10 minutes (2 halves with 10 minutes each). The winner will be the one player/team who scores a higher number of points to his/their credit.

13.7 Play Time and Extensions:

13.7.1 Play Time: The regular play time of a match lasts 20 minutes and is divided into two half times, each with the duration of 10 minutes. The play time is equal for all above-stated disciplines and classes (age groups).
13.7.2 Unforeseen Interruptions: In the event of unforeseen circumstances or inclement weather, etc., the following rules shall be adopted: a) If the interruption is in the first half of the game (first 10 minutes), the game should be replayed from the beginning ignoring the points scored by teams/players. b) If the interruption is in the second half of the game (i.e., second half or completion of first 10 minutes), the game should continue with the scores as they stood at the end of the first half.
13.7.3 Extra Time: In case a competition is played on a knock-out basis and a match ends with a draw, the regular play time has to be extended. The extra time of a match lasts 10 minutes and is divided into two half times, each with the duration of 5 minutes.
13.7.4 Final Extension: In case the extra time ends with a draw, the match has to be extended for a second and last time. This final extension is not bound to time limits but ends after one player or party scores two points more than the opponent player or party.
13.7.5 Break: The time between two half times, between the regular play time and the beginning of the extra time, and between the extra time and the final extension is called a break. The duration of a break should not be more than 3 minutes.
13.7.6 Acoustical Signals: The duration of acoustical signals, given through words or tone in order to start or stop a halftime, are not part of the play time or extra time. This means it is not possible to score during the duration of an acoustical signal.

13.8 A rally is complete if the koit completed one to and fro journey.

13.9 Service shall always be cross-court diagonally, but the first return of a Service may be anywhere in the opposite court.

13.10 While serving, a player should neither touch nor cross the base line before releasing the koit. He may take a run if he chooses, so long as his legs are away from the base line and the koit is not released.

13.11 Forehand and backhand services are allowed; vertical flat services are allowed. But line cutting, wobbling, shaking, etc., which are foul in nature, are not allowed.

Rule 14: Match Conduct and Rules

14.1 No overhand shots in whatsoever form (Forehand, backhand) will be allowed either during service or in play.

14.2 A koit touching the net during the Service will not qualify for a ‘let’ and the point shall be awarded to the opponent(s).

14.3 A player shall have five Services in a row, no matter whether he takes or loses the point. Service is always started from the right half court of the Server. After a point is scored, the next Service is taken from the left half court. This process shall continue until the end of the fifth serve. There shall be a side over now, and the next five services shall be taken by the opponent and he too shall start the Service from the right half court and complete five Services alternatively. Thus, the side-over takes place after the end of five services by a player.

14.4 Backward Service with up tendency without any fault shall be allowed.

14.5 When the score is deuce at 20 all, Service will change hands for every point. In other words, a player will have only one Service in turns instead of the normal five Services. After this stage, all Services are taken only from the right half court of the Server irrespective of the position of the score. Likewise, when 9 rallies are introduced after the expiry of 15 minutes allowed for the completion of a set, Service will change hands for every point, and all Services shall be taken only from the right half court of the server irrespective of where the score stands.

14.6 The koit shall be received and released with one hand (either hand being permissible for a particular delivery) as long as there is no fault while delivering the koit.

14.7 All deliveries shall have an upward tendency.

14.8 A relatively constant or motionless hazard shall not qualify for a re-service. But any disturbances caused to a player by sudden occurrences which are beyond his control shall qualify for a re-service at the discretion of the first referee.

14.9 A koit striking any boundary line either in Service or in rallies, except the side-lines of the Dead Court, shall be deemed to be right. The first pitch of the koit shall be taken into account to decide whether the koit has landed in or out of the court.

14.10 After the introduction of the 9 rallies, there shall be no further time limit for the completion of a set.

14.11 No player at any time during play shall stand in the Dead Court or tread its boundary lines during play and violation shall be penalized. A player shall, however, enter the Dead Court to pick a koit that has come to rest after duly called foul by the First Referee.

14.12 A koit hitting the antenna pole or sailing away from it and falling into the court shall be deemed out.

14.13 A koit is prohibited from entering through the net (meshes) and falling into the court.

14.14 A net broken during the rally will be eligible for a re-service.

14.15 A koit broken during the rally will be eligible for a re-service.

14.16 A player is prohibited from taking the support of the post or other playing equipments while receiving or releasing the koit.

14.17 In case of serious injury to a player or for any other reason, the First Referee may call official time-out after the koit becomes dead on completion of that particular rally. If the player is unable to continue to play within 3 minutes of the occurrence of the injury, he shall be deemed to have lost the Match by default. Likewise, in Doubles, when one of the partners in a team retires hurt, the team shall lose the match by default, as no substitution is allowed.

Rule 15: Additional Service and Play Rules

15.1 The Umpire shall have discretion to allow a maximum of 5 minutes in case of injury to player/s during the play; however, this injury time shall be within 20 minutes of the game. If the injured player/s failed to recover and resume play, the opponent player/team shall be declared as WINNERS.

15.2 During Service and rallies, wobbling and shaking are not allowed. All deliveries should be perfect and graceful as a result of wrist work. A koit wobbling or shaking after hitting the top cord of the net is, however, not penalized.

15.3 The Doubles/Mixed Doubles shall be played alternately, i.e., a player should not receive and return the koit twice consecutively during play. All four players of the two opposing teams shall receive and return the koit alternately among themselves until a point is scored.

15.4 The Captain of the team, which is to serve in the first set by virtue of either winning or losing the toss, should notify the scorer as to who will serve first. The Captain of the opposing team shall notify the scorer as to who will receive the first service.

15.5 At the commencement of each set, Service shall be started from the right half court of the server. After a point is scored, no matter which team has got the point, the next service shall be from the left half court of the server. This process shall continue until five services are completed by a player.

15.6 The Partner of the server shall stand in the adjacent court while service is made. He can occupy any place on his court after the koit has left the hand of the server.

15.7 The court position of the players of the opposing team at the time of each Service shall not change for every point scored until five services are completed. After the Service is made, they can, however, stand at any place in their court.

Example: Let it be assumed that A and B, C and D are partners of two opposing teams. The team consisting of players A & B after winning the toss elects to serve. A takes up the first service; B will stand in the adjacent left half court when service is made. In the opposing team, C receives the service and D will stand in the adjacent half court while service is made. After a point is scored, A will take service from the left half of the court and D in the opposing team will receive it. This process is continued until five services are completed.
All four players shall receive and return the koit alternately among themselves until a point is scored. In the example shown above, A serves to C; C shall return to B; B shall return to D; and D shall return to A. Until a point is scored, this pattern will continue. The second service shall be from A to D; D shall return to B; B shall return to C and C shall return to A. This pattern shall continue until a point is scored. Therefore, out of five services, for three points the pattern will be A to C; C to B; B to D; and D to A. For the remaining two points, the pattern will be A to D; D to B; B to C; and C to A.
After five services are completed by A, C will serve to B first and the pattern will be C to B; B to D; D to A and A to C. For the next service C will serve to A and the pattern will be C to A; A to D; D to B and B to C.
After 5 services are completed by C; B will take his 5 services and he will serve to D first.
After B completes five services, D will take his service and he shall serve to A.
In the beginning of the second set, D will serve to B first. In case there is a third set, B will serve to D first, at the beginning of the set.

Rule 16: Foul Strokes

16.1 The following are the foul strokes which are penalized:

Wobbling 2) Shaking 3) Forehand/backhand shot in Caution Lines/Restricted Area 4) Throwing 5) Delay 6) Pushing 7) Carrying 8) Body Touch 9) Pressing 10) Dead-koit 11) Stepping 12) Squeezing 13) Baulking 14) Jumping.

16.2 Wobbling: Lateral or longitudinal revolving of the koit is called wobbling.

16.3 Shaking: Violent vibrations of the koit caused as a result of failure to impart wrist work is called Shaking.

16.4 Throwing: Flinging the koit illegitimately in the opponent’s court is called Throwing.

16.5 Delay: There shall be a continuous motion while catching or releasing the koit. The motion shall not be marred in the process of release of koits, failing which is delay.

16.6 Pushing: Shoving the koit with a jerk is called Pushing.

16.7 Carrying: If the koit is received above the head or slightly behind it and the arm is swung backward in half-a-cart-wheel formation before release, it is Carrying.

16.8 Body Touch: If the koit, while receiving or releasing, touches any part of the body of a player inclusive of the garments worn, with the exception of palm and fingers, it is called Body Touch.

16.9 Pressing: If the koit is thrust downward with the help of either the indicator or other finger during release, it is called Pressing.

16.10 Dead-Koit: If the koit lands without any spin or force, it is called Dead Koit.

16.11 Stepping: If after receiving a koit a player takes one or more steps and then releases the koit, it is called Stepping. But a step can be taken after the koit is released.

16.12 Squeezing: While receiving or releasing the koit, if it gets crushed or compressed between the palm and fingers, it is called Squeezing (otherwise known as Punching).

16.13 Baulking: If the follow-on of the koit is not continuous but is changed instantaneously to some other direction involving delay, it is called Baulking.

16.14 Jumping: If both the feet of the player are in the air at the time of releasing the koit, it is called Jumping. But, Jumping is permitted after processing receiving the koit.

Rule 17: Faults and Sanctions

When participants commit faults during the game due to actions contrary to the rules or due to misconduct, the first referee judges the faults and determines. The sanction is applicable in accordance with the following principles:

17.1 Faults: Each fault, as specified below in this rule-set, has to be penalized by the referee through awarding one point to the opposite side.

17.2 Game Faults: These are individual actions or team movements contrary to the rules of the game and they consist of:

17.2.1 Not sending the koit correctly over the net into the opponent’s court.
17.2.2 Carrying out an action which is not stipulated in the rules.

17.3 Consequences of a Fault:

17.3.1 There is always a penalty to a fault.
17.3.2 A penalty for a game fault means that the opponent(s) to the player/team committing the fault gains a point.

17.4 Misbehaviour: Misbehaviour towards officials, opponent(s), spectators, or teammates shall be an offence and the sanction(s) thereof will be as follows:

17.4.1 Unsportsmanlike Conduct: If a participant delays the game, coaches his teammate at a time when it is forbidden, shouts, argues or disputes the decisions of the referee(s) or his assistants, it will be construed as unsportsmanlike behaviour.
17.4.2 Offensive Conduct: If any aggressive attempt at the personal honour of the referee or his assistant is made by a player by means of insulting words and gestures to a referee, his assistants, opponent or spectator, it will be construed as Offensive Conduct.
17.4.3 Aggression: If a real physical attack or an initiated aggression against the referee or his assistants, an opponent or the spectator is made, it will be construed as an aggression.

17.5 Sanctions for Misconduct: Depending upon the degree of the misconduct according to the judgement of the first referee, the sanctions to be applied are:

17.5.1 Warning for unsportsmanlike Conduct: No penalty is given but it warns the player(s) or team from a second unsportsmanlike conduct for the remainder of the set/match.
17.5.2 Penalty: A penalty for offensive misconduct must be registered on the Score sheet and the opposing team will gain a point.
17.5.3 Expulsion: Committing offensive misconduct twice is sanctioned by Expulsion, and it means the opponent wins the set and match.
17.5.4 Disqualification: Aggression is sanctioned by disqualification, and it means that the player is debarred from the Championship.

17.6 Sanction Scale (Misconduct Scale): The repetition of a misconduct by the same member of the team during the same set calls for the gradual application of the sanction scale.

CHAPTER VI: REFEREES AND REFEREEING

Referees are the authorized representatives of the sports/games organization which has deputed them to officiate the matches. Referees, as their very designation implies, are expected to be impartial to the core. While carrying out their duties, they shall remain calm, cool, and composed under testing circumstances and maintain their balance of mind when it is disturbed by provocations, intimidations, and the like, from the players or spectators or from any other sources. They shall maintain good relationships with assistants, managers, coaches, captains, and players by their pleasing manners on the courts. They shall wear proper uniform as approved by the Tenni-koit Federation of India.

Rule 18: Refereeing Corps – Procedures and Official Hand Signals

18.1 Composition of Refereeing Corps: The refereeing corps for a match shall be composed of the following officials: One First Referee, One Second Referee, One Scorer, and two or four Linesmen.

18.2 Refereeing Procedures: a) The first referee gives the signal for the service that begins the rally. b) The First and Second referee signal the end of the rally, provided they are sure that a fault has been committed and provided further they identify its nature. c) To indicate that they authorize or reject a team request. d) The first referee may do so in order to give a warning or to penalize a misconduct by a member or by a team. e) Show the nature of the fault with official signal. f) Signal which player or team wins a point. g) Show the team serving next.

18.3 Referees Official Hand Signals: The referee and linesmen must indicate by the official hand signals the nature of the faults called or the purpose of the interruptions authorized.

Rule 19: First and Second Referee

19.1 Position: The first referee carries out his duties seated or standing on a referee’s stand located at one end of the net. His view must be approximately 18″ above the level of the upper edge of the net.

19.2 Second Referee Position: The second referee performs his duties standing on the opposite side, facing the first referee. At the moment the koit is served, he must be along the extension of the front side of the receiving team. Afterwards, he may move in front of the scorer, along the free zone.

19.3 Authority of the First Referee:

19.3.1 He directs the match from beginning to end and has authority over all officials of the refereeing corps and members of both the teams.
19.3.2 He has the power to decide any matter not provided for in these rules.
19.3.3 During the match, his decisions based on the rules are final, and he is authorized to overrule the decisions of other officials if he feels that they are incorrect. He may even replace an official if the latter is not performing his duties properly.
19.3.4 He is the only person responsible for determining, before and during the match, whether or not the playing court is in proper condition for play.
19.3.5 The first and second referee will check before and during the match that the koit meets the prescribed regulations.

19.4 Responsibilities of First Referee:

19.4.1 Prior to the Match: a) He shall inspect the conditions of the playing court and game equipments and satisfy himself that they are all right. He shall customarily introduce himself to his assistants, captains, coaches, and players. He shall assist the players and Captains to get themselves introduced. b) He shall toss the coin to decide the choice of court/service by the winner(s) of the toss and direct the scorer to note the result of the toss and choice of winner(s) of the toss in the Score Sheet. c) In case of Doubles, he shall ascertain from the rival teams as to who will be serving first and who will be receiving at the commencement of the first set and pass on the information to the scorer for noting in the score sheet. d) In the absence of the second referee, he shall take the charge himself.
19.4.2 During the Match: The First Referee: a) Is empowered to signal and penalize all the game faults. b) Is the only person empowered to decide upon faults involving the server doing line cross while taking service. c) Shall decide whether the koit has dropped in the Dead Court or not. d) Shall not recognize any disputes over the nature of the faults, but at the request of the Captain, he will accept a request about the interpretation and application of the rules. e) If the Captain disagrees with an interpretation of the rules and asks to register the fact on the Score Sheet, he must give authorization for the protest to be registered at the end of the match.

19.5 Authority and Responsibility of the Second Referee: He is the assistant to the First Referee.

19.5.1 He checks the players’ position in Doubles before & during the set as well as when the change of court is made.
19.5.2 He shall assist the first referee in counting the 9 rallies after the expiry of 15 minutes allowed for a set. He shall suspend play if a point is not scored by the server within 9 rallies.
19.5.3 He will see whether a koit has passed through the net or not.
19.5.4 He will also see whether the players are crossing the Dead Court or not.
19.5.5 He controls the number of time-outs used for each occasion and reports this data to the first referee and coaches during official time-outs.
19.5.6 He rejects improper requests for interruptions or authorizes or controls the duration of those interruptions that have been properly requested.
19.5.7 He supervises the behaviour of the members of each team seated on the players’ bench and reports any misconduct to the first referee.

Rule 20: Scorer

20.1 Scorer: The scorer keeps the Score Sheet according to the rules, making all necessary recordings to control the game.

20.2 Position: The scorer performs his duties seated at the scorer’s table on the opposite side and facing the first referee.

20.3 Authority:

20.3.1 He records the time-outs granted to each team and notifies the first referee.
20.3.2 He co-operates with the second referee in controlling official interruptions, registrations on the Score Sheet, and reports to the first referee, coaches, and public.

20.4 Responsibilities:

20.4.1 Prior to the Match and Set: a) He shall arrange the lineup in the Doubles Game.
20.4.2 During the Match: The Scorer: a) Records the points scored by each player/team and ensures that the scoreboard indicates the right score. b) Records time-outs and controls their numbers. c) Announces the change of courts at the end of each set and when a team scores the 11th point in the deciding set.
20.4.3 At the end of the match: The Scorer: a) Records the final game result. b) In case of an eventual claim, the scorer writes or allows the writing on the score sheet of the Captain’s personal statement in connection with the facts protested during the course of the game. c) Secures the signatures of the referees and those of the team captains.

Rule 21: Linesmen

21.1 Linesmen: They are responsible for signaling faults assigned to them.

21.2 Location:

21.2.1 Two or four linesmen sit on the chair in the free zone between two to three feet from each corner of the court on the imaginary extension of the line they control.
21.2.2 The linesmen perform their duties by means of signals for koit-in and koit-out.

Rule 22: Protests

22.1 Protests shall not normally be entertained on matters of fact or accuracy of judgement. They shall be entertained only on technical aspects like ineligibility of players, use of colour koits, etc.

22.2 Protests should contain all information for their proper disposal and should be noted by the team captain in writing on the Score Sheet immediately at the end of the match.

22.3 The First Referee, on his part, shall submit his report to the Jury of Appeal with all facts to enable the latter to take a correct decision on the protests. The decision of the Jury of Appeal shall be final and binding on all parties.