CHAPTER I

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

Rule 1. Playing Equipment’s and Their Specifications.

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
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 centre 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 The court measurement shall be as per WTF (ITR Rule No. 1) i.e., 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). i.e., 190 to 200 grams weight and Inner
Diametre 11 to 12 cms and Outer Diametre 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

4.60 m in width. The two lines measuring 12.20m are called side-
lines and two lines measuring 4.60m are called base-lines. The line
dividing the court into two equal halfs of 6.10m. is called centre-line.

1.4 Doubles Court: The doubles court is a rectangle of 12.20 m in length

and 5.50 m in width. The two lines measuring 12.20 m are called side-
lines and the two lines measuring 5.50m are called base-lines. The
line dividing the court into two equal halfs of 6.10 m in length is
called centre-line.

1.5 Dead Court: One parallel line drawn on either side of the Centre Line
0.9M away from it, shall be called deadlines. 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 over all measure 5.5 X1.8 M.

1.6 Neutral Zone: The two parallel lines with a distance of 0.9m from the
 middle of the centre-line are called deadlines. The zone from the
middle of the centre-line to the dead-line measures 0.90 m. in length
and 5050 m. (doubles-Court) or 4.60 m. (singles-court)in width and
is called neutral zone. Together for both court halfs the neutral zone
has a dimension of 1.80 m. in length and 5.50 m. (doubles-court) or
4.60 m. (singles-court) in width but counts as unlimited in its width
concerning the meaning of Rules No. 19.2. 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 baseline and the
dead-line at each half of the court measures 5.20 m. in length and
5.50 m. (double-court) or 4.60 m. (single-court) in width and is called
playing zone. The sidelines, 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 Metres. Away from it or 2.15 Metres from
Dead Lines. All Lines shall be of 5 cm. width.

RULE:2
2. Playing Equipment:

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 respective
Side Line with the Centre Line. Both the side bands shall be
considered part of the net. Height and Position: The net is
positioned in a height of 1.65 m. above the centre-line and
divides the court into two equal halfs. The above specified
height has to exist at any point of the upper edge of the net,
 measured from the floor.
2.2 Tape: Two tapes of cotton material 15 Cm. wide & 70cm
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 a
solid bamboo, fiberglass or similar material 1.06M long and
1.5 to 3.8 Cm in diametre. 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 with 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 height of the net shall be 1.67 M or 5.6 Ft.
2.5 The net height shall be as per WTF specification, i.e.,
1.65 metres at the centre of the net.
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, 3.3 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
according to Rule No. 3.1.
2.5.1 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 the flight through the air.
2.5.2 Weight and dimensions: The ring, authorised by the
World Tenniquoit Federation, must have a Weight between
190 and 220 grams, an inner diametre between 11 and 12
cm, an outer diametre between 17 & 18 cm and a thickness
of 3 cm (diametre). The thickness is allowed to vary plus or
minus 0.5 cm.
Rule 3:
Poles: The poles for fastening the net shall be made of mild steel
tubes of 6 Cm outer diametre. The thickness of the wall of the
tubes may be from 1.2 to 1,3mm. 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. The poles should be fixed 45Cm
away from the centre of the Side Lines. The poles shall be lowered
below the ground level to a depth of 60Cm. The poles shall be
painted with distinct contrasting colours in bands of 23Cm. White
and Black or White and Red are recommended.
Rule 4:
Koit: The koit shall be made of 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.

DESIGN OF THE NET

(DIAGRAM 3 & 4)

WHITE
BAND
HEIGHT OF THE NET FOR SUB-JUNIORS SHALL BE 1.67M
The outer dia of the koit shall be 16Cm and the inner dia 10 Cm. The
thickness shall be 3 Cm with a variation of not more than 5mm.

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

4.2 Preparation of the Court:

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 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 outdoor at times with no or not enough daylight, it is a
acceptable and necessary to illuminate the court with floodlight.

CHAPTER II
Rule-Section II: Disciplines of Tenniquoits
5. Age groups: Competition as specified in Rule No.7.1 and 7.
Are only established for one class, which is not age- restricted.
Competitions as specified in Rule No. 7.3 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. (Rule-Section III: Duration of a Tenniquoits match)
5.1 Singles
5.2 Men section - Singles: The discipline men-singles is played
by two male players, opposing each other on a single-court.
5.3 Women section Singles: The discipline women-singles is
played by two female players, opposing each other on a single-
court.
5.4 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.
5.5 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.
5.4 Competitions
5.4.1 Individual championships: International Individual
championships are conducted for men singles and women-
singles. The arrangement of individual championships has to take
place on basis of the international Playing modes and
competitions Regulations (part 1) of the world tenniquoits
Federation.
5.4.2 Team championships: International team championships
are conducted for teams often 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 basis of
the International Playing Modes and Competition Ragulations
Part II) of the World Tenniquoits Federation.
5.4.3 International Maches: International Maches 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 basis of the International Playing Modes and Competion
Regulations (part III) of the World Tenniquoits Federation.
 CHAPTER III
Participants - Their duties, rights and responsibilities
Rule 6
6.1 Registration and Composition of teams for all National
and Zonal Championships: Each team shall consist of 6 players,
one Manager and one Coach and Women team shall consist of 6
players, one Manager and one coach. But the team shall have at
least one Woman either as Manager or as Coach. 6th player shall
be eligible to play in Mixed doubles. It is mandate 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 6 Players:
6.1 Outfit: All players of both sexes shall wear proper
uniform consisting of T-shirt’s/Jerseys and Shorts and a pair of
canvas shoes. The T-shirt’s/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 7 Duties of players:
7.1 Players should accept the decisions of referee(s) with
sportsmanlike behaviour.
7.2 Players should make themselves aware of the rules of
the game.
7.3 The conduct of the participants should be in accordance
with the spirit of fair play and as mentioned below.
7.3.1 They shall show respect and courteous attitude towards
referee(s), opponents and spectators
7.3.2 They shall avoid actions and attitudes which are
patently aimed at influencing the decisions of the referee or to
cover up faults commited by them or their teams.
7.3.3 They shall avoid actions & attitudes aimed at prolonging
timeouts or deliberate delays of the game with ulterior motives.
7.3.4 They shall avoid giving overt & covert instructions to
players while the game is in progress.

7.3.5 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 8 Coaches/Managers:

8.1 Responsibilities of the Coach.

8.1.1 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.
8.1.2 He may direct warm-up sessions of his players prior to the
match.
8.1.3 During the match he shall be seated at the nominated
place.
8.1.4 Only during the intervals between the sets or time out the
Coach may give instructions to his players without trespassing
the boundaries of the Court or delaying the progress of the game.
8.1.5 They are obliged to respect and make their players
respect the officials, organizers, opponents and spectators.
8.1.6 They shall refrain from disputing the decisions of the
referees.
 CHAPTER IV
Rule 9 Toss and Warm Up:
9.1 Toss is to be taken by the referee outside the court before
the commencement of the match.
9.2 Warming up should also be done outside the court.
9.3 Teams are to be escorted by the referee and his
assistants.

Rule 10 Game Interruption:

10.1 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.
10.1.1 Handling of Interruptions

10.1.2 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 (timeout). The
interruption has to be signalised and terminated by the
organising staff or the referee.
10.1.3 Interruptions without time-out: Situations, which
irritate or hider 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 signalised and terminated by the referee while the time
is running.
10.1.4 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 maximum 3 minutes to clean
player and ring from blood or to provide medical care to stip a
bleeding wound. Concernin off other cases of injuries, the player
has to continue immediately or to abandon the match.
10.1.5 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 organising staff or the
referee in terms of Rule No. 9.1 and by the referee only in terms
of Rule No.9.3.
102 A maximum of one time-out is permitted in each set.

10.3 An interruption shall be granted only on request by the

player/ coach through the use of respective official signal.
10.3.1 Each time-out shall have duration of 30 seconds.

10.3.2 One time-out shall be charged to the Team/player who

prolongs the interruption after the referee has signalled to
resume the game.
10.3.3 A Team/Player shall on no account leave the court during
the time-out.
10.4 The Coach may also speak to his Team/Player without
trespassing the boundaries of the court.
10.5 After request of the players, the referee may authorize
medical attention to be provided on the Court.
10.6 A Team/Player requesting more interruption than is
allowed, will receive a warning by show of Yellow Card.
10.7 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.
10.7.1 If the injured player does not recover within 3 minutes
the set and the match shall be awarded to the opponent(s).
10.8 Interruption Faults:

a) First Time - Warning

b) Repetition - Point/to opponent set/matches as the
case may be.

10.8.1 A Team/Player commits a fault when it/he prolongs a

timeout after being called to resume the game by the referee.
10.8.2 When he requests a second time-out in a particular set.

10.8.3 When he is not ready to resume the match after having

been charged with onetime-out.
10.9 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.
10.9.1 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 interruptions) caused by factors
beyond anybody’s control shall not give any advantage to any
player/Team.
10.9.2. 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
10minures) 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 first
half.
Rule 11 Game Results:
11.1 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 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.
Rule-Section IV: Scoring of Points and Match Results
11.1.1. Scoring of Points
11.1.2 Basic understanding: scoring a point is possible in an
active or passive way. Scoring active mean, the main action,
which leads to a point, goes out from the player, who wins the
point. Scoring passive means, the action, which leads to the point,
is caused by an unforced fault of the opposing player or party.
11.1.3 Active Scoring:
11.1.4 A Player, who is capable to place 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.
11. 1.5. A player, who is capable to force the opponent to
commit a fault, scores a point. Each successful action in this sense
is awarded with one point by the referee.
11.1.6 Passive Scoring: A player or team, whose opponent
commits an unforced fault, scores a point.
11.1.7 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 to score the point.
11.1.8 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 22nd point first.
11.3 Match Winner:
11.3.1 The match winner shall be the team/player who wins
two sets out of three sets.
11.3.2 If a team gets depleted for any reason whatsoever the
match shall be awarded to the opponent team.
11.3.3 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).
11.3.4 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
opponents).
11.3.5 Interval between sets and change of courts:
a) Two minutes is the interval time limit between first
and second and 3 minutes between second and third sets. During
this time limit change of courts are 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

Rule 12 Playing Actions and Faults:

The koit in play must have upward direction when released from
the hand. Referees must strictly penalize absence of such
tendency without fail.
12.1 All matches are decided by best of 3 sets, each set
consisting of 21 points. In the event of 20 each players scoring 22nd
point first wins the set.
12.2 The player is allowed to dive on the ground to retrive the
koit. In such an event the player must release the koit in the
process of getting into the normal positon. 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 psectators
To maintain the fluid motion of the koit exchange.
The caution line has no relevance hence removed.
12.3 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 the breaking with one
point (the player/team securing the very next point will be
declared as winner.
12.4 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. ________________________________________
12.5 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).

12.6 The game shall be for 20 minutes duration, and player/s

shall change court after 10 minutes (2 half with 10 minutes each).
The winner will be the one player/team who scores higher
number of points to his/to their credit.
12.8 Play time and Extensions
12.8.1 Play Time: The regular playtime 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).
12.8.2 In the event of unforseen circumstances or inclement
weather etc., the following rules shall be adopted.
a) If the interruption is in the first half of the game (first
10minures) 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 first
half.
12.8.2 Extra time: In case a competition is played on 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.
The extra time is equal for all above stated disciplines and classes
(age groups).
12.8.3 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.
12.8.4 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 break.
The duration of a break should not be more than 3 minutes.
12.8.5 Acustical Signals: The duration of acustical signals, given
through words or tone in order to start or stop a halftime, are not
part of the play time or extra time. What means, that it is not
possible to score during the duration of an acustical signal.
12.8.6 A rally is complete if the koit completed one to and fro
journey.
12.8.7 Service shall always be cross-court diagonally, but the
first return of a Service may be anywhere in the opposite court.
12.8.8 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.
12.8.9 Fore hand and back hand services are allowed, vertical flat
services are allowed. But line cutting, wobbling, shaking, etc.,
which are foul in nature are not allowed.
13. No over hand shots in whatsoever form (Forehand,
backhand) will be allowed either during service or in play.
13.1 A koit touching the net during the Service will not qualify
for a ‘let’ and the point shall be awarded to the opponent(s).

13.2 A player shall have five Services in a row, no matter

whether he takes or losses 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 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 take
place after the end of five services by a player.
13.3 Backward Service with up tendency without any fault shall
be allowed.
13.4 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 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.
13.5 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.
13.6 All deliveries shall have an upward tendency.

13.7 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.
13.8 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.
13.9 After the introduction of the 9 rallies, there shall be no
further time limit for the completion of a set.
13.10 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.
13.11 A koit hitting the antenna pole or sailing away from it and
falling into the court shall be deemed out.
13.12 A koit is prohibited from entering through the net (meshes)
and falling into the court.
13.13 A net broken during the rally will be eligible for a re-
service.
13.14 A koit broken during the rally will be eligible for a re-
service.
13.15 A player is prohibited from taking the support of the post
or other playing equipment’s while receiving or releasing the
koit.
13.16 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 the Doubles when one of the partners in a team
retires hurt, the team shall lose the match by default, as no
substitution is allowed.
14. 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.

14.1 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.

14.2 The Doubles/Mixed Doubles shall be played alternately i.e.,

a player should not receive and return the koit twice
consecutively during play. All the four players of the two
opposing teams shall receive and return the koit alternatively
among themselves until a point is scored.

14.3 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.

14.4 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.

14.5 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.
14.6 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.
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 the 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 second set, D will serve to B first. In case there is
third set, B will serve to D first, at the beginning of the set.
15.1 The following are the foul strokes which are penalized:
1) Wobbling 2) Shaking 3) Fore hand back hand 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.
15.2 Lateral or longitudinal revolving of the koit is called
wobbling.
15.3 Violent vibrations of the koit caused as a result of failure to
impart wrist work is called Shaking.
15.4 Flinging the koit illegitimately in the opponent’s court is
called Throwing.
15.5 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.
15.6 Shoving the koit with a jerk is called Pushing.
15.7 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.
15.8 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.
15.9 If the koit is thrust downward with the help of either the
indicator or other finger during release, it is called Pressing.
15.10 If the koit lands without any spin or force, it is called Dead
Koit.

15.11 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.
15.12 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.
15.13 If the follow-on of the koit is not continuous but is
changed
Instantaneously to some other direction involving delay, it is
called Baulking.
15.14 If both the feet of the player are in the air at the time of
releasing
The koit is called Jumping. But, Jumping is permitted after
processing receiving the koit.
Rule 16 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:
16.1 Faults: Each fault, as specified below in this rule-set, has
to be penalised by the referee through awarding one point to the
opposite side.
16.2 Game Faults: These are individual actions or team
movements contrary to the rules of the game and they consist of:
16.2.1 Not sending the koit correctly over the net into the
opponent’s court.
16.2.3 Carrying out an action, which is not stipulated in the rules.

16.3 Consequences of a Fault:

16.3.1 There is always a penalty to a fault.
16.3.2 A penalty for a game fault means that the opponent(s) to
the player/team committing the fault gains a point.
16.4 Misbehaviors towards officials, opponent(s), spectators or
teammates shall be an offence and the sanction(s) thereof will be
as follows:
16.4.1 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.
16.4.2 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.
16.4.3 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.
16.5 Sanctions for Misconduct: Depending upon the degree of
the misconduct according to the judgement of the first referee the
sanctions to be applied are:
16.5.1 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.
16.5.2 Penalty for offensive mis-conduct must be registered on
the Score sheet and the opposing team will gain a point.
16.5.3 Expulsion: For committing twice offensive misconduct is
sanctioned by Expulsion and it means the opponent wins the set
and match.
16.5.4 Disqualification: Aggression is sanctioned by
disqualification, and it means that the player is debarred from the
Championship.
16.6 Sanction scale (Mis-conduct scale): The repetition of a
misconduct by the same member of the team during the same set
call 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
relationship with his 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 17 Refereeing Corps-Procedures and Official Hand Signals
17.1 Composition of the refereeing corps Diagram 5
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 Linesman.
17.2 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 and
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) the nature of the fault with official signal
f) Signal which player or team wins a point
g) the team serving next

17.3 Referees Official hand Signals:

Diagram No 6.1 to 25
The referee and linesman must indicate by the official hand
signals the nature of the faults called or the purpose of the
interruptions authorized as shown in diagram No. 6.1 to 25.
Rule 18 First and Second Referee
18.1 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.
18.2 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.
Authority of the First Referee

18.2.1 He directs the match from beginning to end and has

authority over all officials of the refereeing corps and members
of both the teams.
18.2.2 He has the power to decide any matter not provided for
in these rules.

18.2.3 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
official if the latter is not performing his duties properly.
18.2.4 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.
18.2.5 The first and second referee will check before and during
the match that the koit meets the prescribed regulations.
18.3 Responsibilities of First Referee

18.3.1
a) He shall inspect the conditions of the playing court
and game equipment’s 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 scorer to note the
result of 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.
18.3.2 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.

18.4 Authority and Responsibility of the Second Referee:

He is the assistant to the First Referee.
18.4.1 He checks the player's position in Doubles before &
during the set as well as when the change of court is made.
18.4.2 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.
18.4.3 He will see whether a koit has passed through the net or
not.
18.4.4 He will also see whether the players are crossing Dead
Court or not.
18.4.5 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.
18.4.6 He rejects improper requests for interruptions or
authorizes or controls the duration of those interruptions that
have been properly requested.
18.4.7 He supervises the behaviour of the members of each
team seated on the player’s bench and reports any misconduct to
the first referee.
Rule: 19 SCORER

19.0 Scorer: The scorer keeps the Score Sheet according to the
rules making all necessary recordings to control the game.
19.1 The scorer performs his duties seated at the scorer’s table
on opposite side and facing the first referee. Diagram No. 5.
19.2 Authority
19.2.1 He records the time-outs granted to each team and
notifies the first referee.
19.2.2 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.
19.3 Responsibilities:

19.3.1 Prior to the Match and Set:

a) He shall arrange the lineup in Doubles Game.

19.3.2 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.

19.3.3 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 Captains 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 20 LINESMEN

Linesmen: They are responsible for signaling faults assigned

To them.

20.1 Location: See diagram No.5

20.1.1 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.
20.1.2 The linesmen performs their duties by means of signals
for koit-in and koit-out as shown in the diagram No.6.

21.1 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.

21.2 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.

21.3 The First Referee, on his part, shall submit his report to
the Jury of Appeal with all facts to enable the latter to take World
Tenniquoits Federation.