BWF`s skirt rule implementation postponed till June 1

Facing intense resistance from players in India, the Badminton World Federation postponed the implementation of its controversial new rule.

New Delhi: Facing intense resistance from players in India, the Badminton World Federation on Thursday postponed the implementation of its controversial new rule, which makes wearing skirts mandatory for female shuttlers, by a month to June 1.

"Badminton`s new clothing regulations, part of an overall campaign to raise the profile of women in badminton and profile of the sport, will be implemented on June 1, granting member associations and players another month to adapt to the new ruling," the BWF said in a statement. The new rule was set to come into practice after next week`s Indian Open Super Series here and female players in India were uncomfortable with the dress code. Top shuttler Saina Nehwal had stated that though she herself was not against wearing skirts, but the choice of attire should be left to players. The BWF said it has received varied feedback on the new regulation and would talk to the players. "Sometimes it is necessary to make rules to get a consistent implementation. BWF have for many years encouraged both badminton clothing manufacturers and players to produce and wear clothing that would enhance the presentation of the game in general," said BWF Deputy President Paisan Rangsikitpho."We are, however, always willing to listen to the players, which is why we have decided to delay the implementation date slightly to June 1 to be able to advise and have a dialogue with the players on the guidelines," he added. The BWF official said the extension will give all member nations the time to understand the logic behind the new rules ahead of the BWF`s Annual General Meeting in China on May 28.With this extension, the rule will now come into implementation in Singapore Open Super Series. PTI