Amanda Knapp
Badminton is a thrilling sport that involves a lot of dynamic movement and quick reactions. However, sometimes the action needs to be paused, and this is known as a 'let'. A let can be called by an umpire or a player, and it results in the rally being replayed without any change to the score or serving positions. There are several reasons why a let may be called, including problems with the shuttlecock, distractions, or faults committed by both players simultaneously. For example, if the shuttlecock gets stuck on the net or breaks during play, a let is called. Similarly, if there are objects or people on the court causing distractions, the umpire will call a let to ensure fair play. In the absence of an umpire, players must make their own calls based on etiquette and common sense, with the player with the best view making the decision. Lets are less common than faults, but they are an important part of ensuring a smooth and fair badminton match.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Occurrence | Rare compared to faults |
| Effect on score | No change in score |
| Effect on serving positions | No change in serving positions |
| Effect on rally | Rally stops and is replayed |
| Reasons | Distractions on the court, faults by both players, problems with the shuttlecock |
| Shuttlecock problems | Stuck on the net, disintegration, hitting fixtures above the court |
| Distractions | Objects, people, coaches |
| Faults | Receiver dropping the racket, server hitting the shuttlecock too early, receiver distracting the server |
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What You'll Learn
A let is called when the shuttlecock gets stuck on the net
In badminton, a let is called when the shuttlecock gets stuck on the net after the service is returned. According to the Laws of Badminton 2021 version 14.2.3.1, if the shuttlecock is caught on the net and remains suspended on its top after the service is returned, it is considered a let. This is further clarified in version 14.2.3.2, which states that if the shuttlecock passes over the net and then gets caught in it, it is also considered a let.
When a let occurs, the rally stops and is replayed without any change in the score or serving positions. This means that the players will resume the game with the same score they had before the let, and the same players will serve and receive as before.
It's important to note that if the shuttlecock gets stuck in the net during the service (before the service is returned), it is considered a fault, not a let. This is outlined in the Laws of Badminton 13.2.
In some casual badminton groups, there may be variations in the rules. For example, some groups may consider it a fault for the player who last touched the shuttlecock, regardless of whether it is stuck on the server's side or the receiver's side of the court. However, in official tournaments and competitive play, the Laws of Badminton should be followed to ensure fairness and consistency.
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A let can occur when the shuttlecock breaks or disintegrates
A let in badminton is when the rally stops and is replayed, without changing the score or serving positions. One situation in which a let can occur is when the shuttlecock breaks or disintegrates during play. This usually only happens with cheap plastic shuttles, and only when the base completely separates from the rest of the shuttle.
If a player hits the shuttlecock with enough force to cause it to break or disintegrate, they are jokingly given the title "Destroyer of Shuttles" for the day. This is considered a lighthearted honour, to be worn with pride, and perhaps even a crown.
It is important to note that not all damage to the shuttlecock will result in a let. Only complete separation of the base from the rest of the shuttlecock causes a let to be played. Partial damage to the shuttlecock may not be sufficient to stop the rally and require a replay.
In club badminton, there are often no line judges or umpires, so it is up to the players to make their own calls. This can lead to disagreements, and it is recommended that players resolve these disputes amongst themselves, without seeking opinions from spectators, unless they have been appointed as line judges. Ultimately, the player with the best view should make the call, and their opponent should trust their judgement, as disputing the call could be seen as accusing them of cheating.
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Distractions on the court can cause a let to be played
Distractions can come in many forms, and it is important to be aware of them to maintain good etiquette and respect for your opponent. Firstly, talking to spectators or coaches during a game is considered very rude and can be a distraction to your opponent. Similarly, making any noise to disturb your opponent during a match is unacceptable. It is also important to be mindful of other games in progress. Staying clear of the sidelines and boundaries of other courts is respectful and avoids causing a distraction.
In addition to external distractions, players should also be mindful of their behaviour on the court. Unusual and distracting body movements during a rally, or shouting during play, can cause a let to be called. It is also considered a distraction and against the rules for the server to rush the receiver by serving before they are ready. This can cause confusion and disrupt the flow of the game, leading to a let being played.
Ultimately, good badminton etiquette involves keeping a calm temperament and respecting your opponent, irrespective of the challenges you may face during a match. By avoiding distractions and maintaining good sportsmanship, players can ensure that lets are only played when truly necessary, keeping the game fair and enjoyable for all involved.
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A let can be played when players aren't ready for service
In badminton, a let is called to halt play temporarily, and it does not penalise any player. A let can be played when a player is not ready for service. This is the most common type of let in professional games. According to the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) rules, both players—the server and receiver—need to be ready before play is initiated. If the receiver is not ready, they should not move their racket or feet and let the shuttle drop to the floor. They can also put their hand up with the palm facing the server in a stop sign. The receiver will be considered ready if they attempt to return the service.
If the server tries to rush the receiver by serving before they are ready, the receiver can gain a statistical advantage by staying calm and not attempting to return the serve. If the serve lands in, the receiver can ask for the point to be replayed. If the serve lands out, the receiver takes the point. Players should not abuse this rule by always claiming they were not ready, as this would be considered an undue delay and could be called a fault by the umpire.
In casual games, a let is more likely to be caused by a foreign shuttlecock entering the court. However, in both professional and casual games, a let can be called when a shuttlecock gets stuck on the net or breaks during play. A let can also be called when both players commit faults or when there are other odd circumstances that can disrupt the integrity and flow of the game.
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If the shuttlecock hits fixtures above the court, a let may be called
In badminton, a let results in the rally being stopped and replayed, without any change to the score or serving positions. In club badminton, there are usually no umpires or line judges, so the players themselves must make the call on whether a let should be played. If the shuttlecock hits fixtures above the court, a let may be called if the players agree that this has affected the rally. The players must use their etiquette and common sense to decide whether to play a let in this scenario.
If the nearest player does not see where the shuttlecock lands, and there is disagreement between players, a let should be played. The player with the best view should ideally make the call, and this may be the receiver or their partner. Disputing the receiver's call could be seen as accusing them of cheating, so players should be mindful of this when deciding whether to play a let.
If the shuttlecock hits fixtures above the court and the receiver is not ready to play on, they should stay still. The server should not serve before the receiver is ready, but if a return is attempted, the receiver is considered ready. Players should not abuse this rule by always saying they are not ready, as this would be an undue delay and could be considered a fault in an officiated tournament.
Ultimately, if the shuttlecock hits fixtures above the court, the players must decide together whether this has impacted the rally and whether a let should be played. This decision should be made based on the angle and perspective of the players, and the receiver's readiness to return the shuttlecock.
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Frequently asked questions
A 'let' is when an umpire or a player calls a stop to the play. Play can stop for a variety of reasons, including a stuck shuttlecock, the disintegration of a shuttlecock, or distractions in the court. A let does not penalise any player, and the score and serving positions remain unchanged.
A let can be called when a shuttlecock gets stuck on the net or when it disintegrates in the middle of a match. A let can also be called when there are distractions in the court, such as objects or people. If the shuttlecock strikes any fixtures above the court, such as lights or basketball hoops, it is up to the tournament director to determine if it is considered a let.
A fault occurs when a player fails to hit the shuttlecock over the net or it lands outside the boundary of the court. A fault can also occur when a player strikes the shuttlecock with a new movement or shot after it has already been hit. A let, on the other hand, is a stoppage in play that does not penalise any player and does not result in a change of score or serving positions.
