 Singles Squash Rules
1. THE GAME
The game of Squash is played between two players, each using a specified
racket, with a specified ball, and in a court constructed to
World Squash Federation specified
dimensions.
2. THE SCORE
A match shall consist of the best of three or five games at the option
of the organizers of the competition. Each game is to nine points, in
that the player who scores nine points wins the game, except that, on
the score being called eight-all for the first time, the receiver shall
choose before the next service is delivered to continue that game either
to nine points (known as "Set one") or to ten points (known as "Set
two") in which latter case the player who scores two more points wins
the game. The receiver shall in either case clearly indicate their
choice to the Marker, Referee and opponent.
The Marker shall call either "Set one" or "Set two" as applicable before
play continues.
The Marker shall call "Game ball" to indicate that the server requires
one point to win the game in progress or "Match ball" to indicate that
the server requires one point to win the match.
3. POINTS
Points can be scored only by the server. When the server wins a stroke
the server scores a point; when the receiver wins a stroke the receiver
becomes the server.
4. THE SERVICE
4.1 The right to
serve first is decided by the spin of a racket. Thereafter, the server
continues to serve until losing a stroke, whereupon the opponent becomes
the server, and this procedure continues
throughout the match. At the commencement of the second and each
subsequent game the winner of the previous game serves first.
4.2 At the
beginning of each game and each hand the server has the choice of
serving from either box and thereafter shall serve from alternate boxes
while remaining the server. However, if a rally ends in a let the server
shall serve again from the same box.
Note To
Officials
If it appears that the server intends to serve from the wrong box, or
either player appears undecided as to which is the correct box, the
Marker shall advise which is the correct box. If the Marker makes an
error with this advice, or there is any dispute, the Referee shall rule
on the correct box.
4.3 For a service
to be good there shall be no foot fault and the ball, before being
struck, shall be dropped or thrown and shall not hit the walls, floor,
ceiling or any object(s) suspended from the walls or ceiling; it shall
be served directly onto the front wall between the cut line and the out
line so that on its return, unless volleyed, it reaches the floor within
the quarter of the court opposite to the server's box. Should a player,
having dropped or thrown the ball, make no attempt to strike it, the
ball shall be dropped or thrown again for that service . A player with
the use of only one arm may utilize the racket to propel the ball into
the air before striking it.
4.4 A service is
good when it does not result in hand out. The service becomes hand out
and the server loses the stroke if:
4.4.1 The ball,
after being dropped or thrown for service, touches the wall(s), floor,
ceiling or any object(s) suspended from the walls or ceiling before
being served. - Called "Fault".
4.4.2 At the time
of striking the ball the server fails to have part of one foot in
contact with the floor within the service box without any part of that
foot touching the service box line (part of that foot may project over
this line provided that it does not touch the line). - Called "Foot
fault".
4.4.3 The server
makes an attempt but fails to strike the ball. - Called "Not up".
4.4.4 The ball is
not struck correctly. - Called "Not up".
4.4.5 The ball is
served out. -Called "Out".
4.4.6 The ball is
served against any part of the court before the front wall. -
Called"Fault".
4.4.7 The ball is
served onto or below the cut line. - Called "Fault" if above the board
and "Down" if on or below the board.
4.4.8 The first
bounce of the ball, unless volleyed by the receiver, is on the floor on
or outside the short or half court lines of the quarter court opposite
to the server's box. - Called "Fault".
4.4.9 The ball,
after being served and before it has bounced more than once on the floor
and before it
has been struck at by the receiver, touches the server or anything the
server wears or carries. - Called "Down".
4.5 The server must
not serve until the Marker has completed calling the score.
Note To
Officials
The Marker must not delay play by the calling of the score. However, if
the server serves or attempts to serve prior to the calling of the
score, the Referee shall stop play and require the server to wait until
the calling of the score has been completed.
5. THE PLAY
After a good service has been delivered the players return the ball
alternately until one fails to make a good return, the ball otherwise
ceases to be in play in accordance with the squash rules or on a call by the
Marker or Referee.
6. GOOD RETURN
o 6.1 A return is good if the ball , before it has bounced more than
once upon the floor, is returned correctly by the striker onto the front
wall above the board, without first touching the floor or any part of
the striker's body or clothing, or the opponent's racket, body or
clothing, provided the ball is not hit out.
o 6.2 It shall not be considered a good return if the ball touches the
board before or after it hits the front wall and before it bounces on
the floor, or if the racket is not in the player's hand at the time the
ball is struck.
7. LET
A let is an undecided rally. The rally in respect of which a let is
allowed shall not count and the server shall serve again from the same
box.
8. STROKES
A player wins a stroke:
8.1 Under Rule 4.4
when the player is the receiver.
8.2 If the opponent
fails to make a good return of the ball when the opponent is the
striker, unless a let is allowed or a stroke is awarded to the opponent.
8.3 If the ball
touches the opponent or anything the opponent wears or carries when the
opponent is the non-striker, except as is otherwise provided for in
Squash Rules 9, 10 and 13.1.1. In all cases the Referee shall rule accordingly.
8.4 If a stroke is
awarded by the Referee as provided for in the squash rules.
9. HITTING AN OPPONENT WITH THE BALL
If the ball, before reaching the front wall, hits the striker's opponent
or
racket, or anything they wear or carry, the ball shall cease to be in
play and:
9.1 Unless Rule 9.2
applies, the striker shall win the stroke if the return would have been
good and the ball would have struck the front wall without first
touching any other wall.
9.2 If the return
would have been good but the striker has either followed the ball round
and turned or allowed it to pass around themselves - in either case by
striking the ball to the right of the striker's body after the ball had
passed to the left (or vice versa) then a let shall be allowed in all
cases.
Note To Referees
If the striker, having turned or allowed the ball to pass around them,
chooses not to continue the rally due to reasonable fear of striking the
opponent and, in the opinion of the Referee, a reasonable possibility of
this occurring did exist and the striker would have been able to make a
good return, then a let shall be allowed .
9.3 If the ball
either had struck or would have struck any other wall and the return
would have been good, a let shall be allowed unless, in the opinion of
the Referee, a winning return has been intercepted, in which case the
striker shall win the stroke.
Note To Referees
The stroke award provisions of Rule 9 do not apply to turning, ball
passing around the striker, or further attempts.
9.4 If the return
would not have been good, the striker shall lose the stroke.
Note To
Officials
When a player has been struck by the ball as described in Rule 9, the
Marker shall call "Down". The Referee shall assess the trajectory of the
ball and make all further decisions.
10. FURTHER ATTEMPTS TO HIT THE BALL
If the striker strikes at and misses the ball further attempts may be
made to strike it. If, after being missed, the ball touches the opponent
or the opponent's racket, or anything they wear or carry, then, if, in
the opinion of the Referee:
10.1 The striker
could otherwise have made a good return a let shall be allowed, or
10.2 The striker
could not have made a good return they shall lose the stroke.
If any such further
attempt is successful resulting in a good return being prevented from
reaching the front wall by hitting the striker's opponent or anything
they wear or carry, a let shall be allowed in all circumstances. If any
such further attempt would not have resulted in a good return, the
striker shall lose the stroke.
11.APPEALS
The loser of a rally may appeal against any decision of the Marker
affecting that rally.
An appeal to the Referee under Rule 11 should be prefaced with the words
"Appeal please". Play shall then cease until the Referee has given a
decision.
If an appeal under Rule 11 is disallowed the Marker's decision shall
stand. If the Referee is uncertain a let shall be allowed except where
provided for in the Note To Referees after Rule 11.2.1 and Notes To
Referees C and D after Rule 11.2.2.
Appeals upheld or Referee intervention under Rule 20.4 are dealt with in
each specific situation below.
Note To Referees
A pointing gesture is not an appeal.
11.1 Appeals on
Service
11.1.1 If the
Marker calls "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or "Out" to the
service the server may appeal. If the appeal is upheld a let shall be
allowed.
11.1.2 If the
Marker fails to call "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or "Out" to
the service the receiver may appeal, either immediately or at the end of
the rally if they have played or attempted to play the ball. If, in the
opinion of the Referee, the service was not good play shall be stopped
immediately and a stroke awarded to the receiver.
11.2 Appeals on
Play other than Service
11.2.1 If the
Marker calls "Not up", " Down" or "Out" following a player's return, the
player may appeal. If the appeal is upheld the Referee shall allow a let
except that if, in the opinion of the Referee:
The Marker's call
has interrupted that player's winning return, they shall award the
stroke to the player.
The Marker's call
has interrupted or prevented a winning return by the opponent, they
shall award the stroke to the opponent.
Note To Referees
In the latter case the Referee shall also award the stroke to the
opponent if they are unsure whether the Marker's call was correct.
11.2.2 If the
Marker fails to call "Not up", "Down" or "Out" following a player's
return the opponent may appeal either immediately or at the end of the
rally if they have played or attempted to play the ball. If, in the
opinion of the Referee, the return was not good plays shall stop
immediately and a stroke shall be awarded to the opponent.
Notes To
Referees
A. No appeal under Rule 11 may be made after the delivery of a service
for anything that occurred before that service
B. Where there is more than one appeal in a rally (including an appeal
under Rule 12) the Referee shall consider each appeal .
C. If a return is called "Not up", "Down" or "Out" by the Marker and
that same return subsequently goes down or out the Referee, on appeal,
if reversing the Marker's call or unsure, shall then rule on the
subsequent occurrence.
D. If a service is called "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or
"Out" by the Marker and that service subsequently goes down, not up or
out, or is again a fault, the Referee, on appeal, if reversing the
Marker's call or unsure, shall then rule on the subsequent occurrence.
12. INTERFERENCE
12.1 When it is
their turn to play the ball a player is entitled to freedom from
interference by their opponent.
12.2 To avoid
interference the opponent must make every effort to provide the player
with:
12.2.1 Unobstructed
direct access to the ball.
12.2.2 A fair view
of the ball.
12.2.3 Freedom to
hit the ball.
12.2.4 Freedom to
play the ball directly to the front wall
12.3 Interference
occurs if the opponent fails to fulfill any of the requirements of Rule
12.2, irrespective of whether they make every effort to do so.
Notes To
Referees
(G1) A. In 12.2.1
the opponent must move to allow the player direct access to the ball as
soon as the opponent has completed their own return, i.e. at the
completion of a reasonable follow-through of their racket swing. The
player must also make every effort to get to and where possible play the
ball.
B. In 12.2.2 fair
view of the ball applies only to its rebound from the front wall.
(G2) C. In 12.2.3
freedom to hit the ball requires that the opponent permit the player an
arc of racket swing comprising reasonable backswing, strike at the ball
and reasonable follow-through.
Interference caused
by a player's excessive backswing can not result in the award of a
stroke to that player.
A player's
excessive follow-through may cause interference for the opponent when it
becomes the latter's turn to play the ball.
12.4 A player
encountering what they consider to be interference has the choice of
continuing with play or of stopping and appealing to the Referee.
(G3) 12.4.1 The
correct method of appeal, whether a let or a stroke is sought by the
player, is with the words "Let please".
(G4) 12.4.2 An
appeal may be made only by the player. The appeal must be made either
immediately the interference occurs or, where the player clearly does
not continue with play beyond the point of interference, without undue
delay.
12.5 The Referee
shall decide on the appeal and shall announce the decision with the
words "No let", "Yes let" or "Stroke to ... (name of appropriate
player)". In assessing the interference situation the only relevant
opinion is that of the Referee and the Referee's decision shall be
final.
12.6 The Referee
shall not allow a let and the player shall lose the rally if:
12.6.1 There has
been no interference.
12.6.2 Interference
has occurred but either the player would not have made a good return or
has not made adequate effort to get to and where possible play the ball.
12.6.3 The player
has clearly accepted the interference and played on.
(G5) 12.6.4 The
player has created their own interference in moving to the ball
12.7 The Referee
shall allow a let if there has been interference which the opponent has
made every effort to avoid and the player would have made a good return.
12.8 The Referee
shall award a stroke to the player if:
12.8.1 There has
been interference which the opponent has not made every effort to avoid
and the player would have made a good return
12.8.2 There has
been interference which the opponent has made every effort to avoid and
the player would have made a winning return.
12.8.3 The player
has refrained from hitting the ball which, if hit, would clearly have
struck the opponent going directly to the front wall; or to a side wall
but in the latter case would have been a winning return (unless in
either case turning, ball passing around player or further attempt
applies).
12.9 The Referee is
also empowered to allow a let under Rule 12.7 or to award a stroke under
Rule 12.8 without an appeal having been made, if necessary stopping play
to do so.
12.10 The
provisions of Rule 17, Conduct On Court, may be applied in interference
situations. The Referee shall, stopping play if it has not already
stopped, apply an appropriate penalty if:
(G6) 12.10.1 The
player has made unnecessary physical contact with their opponent or vice
versa.
12.10.2 The player
has endangered their opponent with an excessive racket swing.
13. LETS
In addition to lets allowed under other squash rules, lets may or shall be
allowed in certain other cases.
13.1 A let may be
allowed:
13.1.1 If owing to
the position of the striker, the opponent is unable to avoid being touched
by the ball before the return is made.
Note To Referees
This rule shall
include the cases where the striker's position is in front of the
opponent, making it difficult for the latter to see the ball, or where
the striker allows the ball to pass close to themselves and the ball
hits the opponent who is behind the striker. This is not, however, to be
taken as conflicting in any way with the duties of the Referee under
Rule 12.
13.1.2 If the ball
in play touches any article lying on the floor.
Note To Referees
The Referee shall
ensure that no articles are placed on the floor by the players.
(G7) 13.1.3 If the
striker refrains from hitting the ball owing to a reasonable fear of
injuring their opponent.
Note To Referees
This shall include
the case of the striker wishing to play the ball onto the back wall.
13.1.4 If, in the
opinion of the Referee, either player is distracted by an occurrence on
or off the court.
13.1.5 If, in the
opinion of the Referee, a change in court conditions has affected the
result of the rally.
13.2 A let shall be
allowed:
13.2.1 If the
receiver is not ready and does not attempt to return the service.
13.2.2 If the ball
breaks during play.
13.2.3 If the
Referee is asked to decide an appeal and is unable to do so.
13.2.4 If an
otherwise good return has been made but either the ball lodges in any
part of the playing surface of the court preventing it from bouncing
more than once upon the floor, or the ball goes out on its first bounce.
13.3 If the striker
appeals for a let under Squash Rules 13.1 (2 to 5), in order for a let to be
allowed they must have been able to make a good return. For a
non-striker appeal under Squash Rules 13.1.2, 13.1.4 and 13.1.5 this is not a
requirement.
13.4 No let shall
be allowed under Squash Rules 13.1.3 and 13.2.1 if the striker attempts to play
the ball but may be allowed under Squash Rules 13.1.2, 13.1.4, 13.1.5, 13.2.2,
13.2.3 and 13.2.4.
13.5 The appeals
requirements of Rule 13 are:
13.5.1 An appeal by
the player is necessary for a let to be allowed under Squash Rules 13.1.3
(striker only), 13.1.4, 13.2.1 (striker only) and 13.2.3.
13.5.2 An appeal by
the player or Referee intervention without appeal is applicable to Rules
13.1.2, 13.1.5, 13.2.2 and 13.2.4.
13.5.3 Where a
player is struck by the ball as described in Rule 13.1.1 the Referee
shall decide without appeal whether a let is to be allowed or the stroke
awarded to the striker.
14. THE BALL
14.1 At any time,
when the ball is not in actual play, another ball may be substituted by
mutual consent of the players, or on appeal by either player at the
discretion of the Referee.
Note To Referees
Either player or the Referee may examine the ball at any time it is not
in actual play to check its condition.
14 .2 If a ball
breaks during play, it shall be replaced promptly by another ball.
Note To Referees
The Referee shall decide whether a ball is broken.
14.3 If a ball has
broken during play but this has not been established, a let for the
rally in which the ball broke shall be allowed if the server appeals
prior to the next service or if the receiver appeals prior to attempting
to return that service.
Note To Referees
(G8) If the receiver appeals prior to attempting to return service and,
in the opinion of the Referee, the ball break occurred during that
service, the Referee shall allow a let for that rally only, but if
unsure, should allow a let for the previous rally.
14.4 The provisions
of Rule 14.3 do not apply to the final rally of a game. An appeal in
this case must be immediately after the rally.
14.5 If a player
stops during a rally to appeal that the ball is broken only to find
subsequently that the ball is not broken, then that player shall lose
the stroke.
15. WARM UP
15.1 Immediately
preceding the start of play the two players together shall be allowed on
the court of play a period of five minutes for the purpose of warming up
the ball to be used for the match.
After two and a
half minutes of the warm up, the Referee shall call "Half time" and
ensure that the players change sides unless they mutually agree
otherwise. The Referee shall also advise when the warm up period is
complete with the call of "Time".
An interval of up
to ninety seconds shall be permitted between the end of the warm up and
start of play.
15.2 Where a ball
has been substituted under Rule 14 or when the match is being resumed
after considerable delay, the Referee shall allow the ball to be warmed
up to playing condition.
Play shall then resume on the direction of the Referee, or upon mutual
consent of the players, whichever is the earlier.
Note To Referees
The Referee must ensure that both players warm up the ball fairly (Rules
15.1 and 15.2). An unfair warm up shall be dealt with under the
provisions of Rule 17.
15.3 The ball may
be warmed up by either player between the end of the five-minute warm up
and start of play, between games and when their opponent is changing
equipment.
16. CONTINUITY OF PLAY
After the first service is delivered play shall be continuous so far as
is practical provided that:
16.1 At any time
play may be suspended, owing to bad light or other circumstances beyond
the control of the players, for such period as the Referee shall decide.
The score shall stand.
If another court is
available when the court originally in use remains unsuitable, the match
may be transferred to it if both players agree or as directed by the
Referee.
In the event of
play being suspended for the day the score shall stand unless both
players agree to start the match again.
16.2 An interval of
ninety seconds shall be permitted between all games. Players may leave
the court during such intervals but must be ready to resume play by the
end of the stated time.
By mutual consent
of the players play may recommence prior to the expiry of the
ninety-second time interval.
(G9) 16.3 If a
player satisfies the Referee that a change of equipment, clothing or
footwear is necessary, the player may leave the court. The player is
required to effect the change as quickly as possible and shall be
allowed a period not exceeding ninety seconds for this purpose.
16.4 When fifteen
seconds of a permitted ninety-second time interval remain the Referee
shall call "Fifteen seconds" to advise the players to be ready to resume
play. At the end of this interval the Referee shall call "Time".
It is the
responsibility of the players to be within earshot of the court to hear
the calls of "Fifteen seconds" and "Time".
Notes To
Referees
A. Should one player fail to be ready to resume play when "Time" is
called, the Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17.
B. Should neither player be ready to resume play when "Time" is called
the Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17 for both players.
16.5 In the event
of an injury to a player the Referee shall decide if it was:
(G10) 16.5.1
Self-inflicted
16.5.2 Accidentally
contributed to or accidentally caused by their opponent
16.5.3 Caused by
the opponent's deliberate or dangerous play or action.
Notes To
Referees
A. In all injury situations, the Referee must determine that the injury
is genuine.
B. In Rule 16.5.1, the Referee may allow the injured player up to three
minutes to recover from the injury. This time interval may be extended
at the discretion of the Referee. If additional recovery time is needed
beyond that permitted by the Referee, the Referee shall require the
player to continue play; or concede the game, accept the time interval
and then continue play; or concede the match.
C. In Rule 16.5.2, the Referee must not interpret the words
"accidentally contributed to" or "accidentally caused by" to include the
situation where the injury to the player is as a result of that player
occupying an unnecessarily close position to their opponent.
D. In Rule 16.5.2 the Referee shall allow reasonable time for the
injured player to recover, having regard to the time schedule of the
competition.
The injured player
must by the end of this period of time resume play
E. In Rule 16.5.3 the Referee may, at their discretion, apply an
appropriate Rule 17 penalty, except that if the injured player requires
time to recover the Referee shall award the match to the injured player.
F. In all cases a player shall not resume play while a wound which is
bleeding remains uncovered and the flow of blood continues.
(G11) 16.6 The
Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17 to a player who, in their
opinion, delays play unreasonably. Such delay may be caused by:
16. 6.1 Unduly slow
preparation to serve or to receive service.
16.6.2 Prolonged
discussion with the Referee.
16.6.3 Delay in
returning to the court, having left under the terms of Rules 15.1, 16.2
or 16.3.
17. CONDUCT ON COURT
If the Referee considers that the behavior of a player on court could be
intimidating or offensive to an opponent, official or spectator, or
could in any way bring the game into disrepute, the player may be
penalized.
(G12) Offences
which should be dealt with under this rule include audible and visible
obscenities, verbal and physical abuse, dissent to Marker or Referee,
abuse of racket or ball and coaching, other than during the interval
between games. Other offences include unnecessary physical contact and
excessive racket swing (Rule 12.10), unfair warm up (Rule 15.2 Note To
Referees), late back on court (Rule 16.4 Notes to Referees A and B),
deliberate or dangerous play or action (Rule 16.5.3) and time wasting
(Rule 16.6).
(G13) For these and
any other offences which, in the opinion of the Referee, justify the
application of this rule, one of the following penalty provisions may be
applied.
Warning by the
Referee (called a Conduct Warning)
Stroke awarded to
opponent (called a Conduct Stroke)
Game awarded to
opponent (called a Conduct Game)
Match awarded to
opponent (called a Conduct Match)
Notes To
Referees
A. If the Referee stops play to give a warning a let shall be allowed.
B. If the Referee stops a rally to award a conduct stroke then that
stroke award becomes the result of the rally. If the Referee awards a
conduct stroke at the conclusion of a rally, the result of the rally
stands and the conduct stroke award is additional but without change of
service box. A conduct stroke awarded at the end of a game shall be
carried over to the next game.
C. If the Referee awards a game that game shall be the one in progress
or the next game if one is not in progress, in which latter case the
interval between games shall not apply. The offending player shall
retain any points already scored in the game awarded.
18. CONTROL OF A MATCH
A match is normally controlled by a Referee, assisted by a Marker. One
person may be appointed to carry out the functions of both Referee and
Marker. When a decision has been made by the Referee, the Referee shall
announce it to the players and the Marker shall repeat it with the
subsequent score.
Notes To
Officials
(G14) A. It is
desirable to have separate Officials to carry out the roles of Marker
and Referee.
B. Players are not permitted to request a change of Marker or Referee.
The Tournament Referee has the sole right to replace a Marker or Referee
before or after the commencement of a match.
19. DUTIES OF A MARKER
19.1 The Marker
shall call the play, followed by the score, with the server's score
called first. "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down", "Out" and
"Hand-out" shall be called as appropriate, and shall repeat the
Referee's decisions.
(G15) 19.2 If the
Marker makes a call the rally shall cease.
Note To Markers
If the Marker is
unsighted or uncertain no call shall be made.
19.3 If play ceases
and the Marker is unsighted or uncertain the Marker shall advise the
players and shall call on the Referee to make the relevant decision; if
the Referee is unable to do so a let shall be allowed.
Note To Markers
Markers must use recognized calls, including when the rally has ceased.
20. DUTIES OF A REFEREE
20.1 The Referee
shall allow or disallow appeals for lets, and award strokes; make
decisions where called for by the squash rules, including all cases when a
player is struck by the ball, and for injuries; and shall decide all
appeals including those against the Marker's calls or lack of calls. The
decision of the Referee shall be final.
20.2 The Referee
shall exercise control:
20.2.1 Upon appeal
by one of the players, including an appeal against any specification.
20.2.2 As provided
for in Rules 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and19.
20.3 The Referee
shall not intervene in the Marker's calling of the score unless, in the
opinion of the Referee, the score has been called incorrectly in which
case they shall have the Marker call the correct score.
Note To
Officials
Both the Marker and Referee are required to record the score.
20.4 The Referee
shall not intervene in the Marker's calling of the play unless, in the
opinion of the Referee, the Marker has made an error in stopping play or
allowing play to continue, in which case the Referee shall immediately
rule accordingly.
20.5 The Referee is
responsible for ensuring that all rules of squash relating to time are strictly
enforced.
20.6 The Referee is
responsible for ensuring that court conditions are appropriate for play.
20.7 The Referee
may award a match to a player whose opponent fails to be present on
court, ready to play, within ten minutes of the advertised time of play.
G1. MAKING EVERY EFFORT
The outgoing striker is required to make every effort to clear the ball
after playing their return. Their route should be on a path which allows
the incoming striker direct access to the ball, provided the incoming
striker has not moved into play the ball so quickly that they block the
outgoing striker's exit.
However, it is equally important for the incoming striker to make every
effort to get to and where possible, play the ball. If the incoming
striker does not make every effort to get to the ball, then that is a
significant factor in the Referee's assessment of whether or not that
player could have reached the ball and made a good return.
The degree of effort that is required by the incoming striker, in order
to demonstrate that they were indeed making every effort, is for the
Referee to decide. Players should note that this does not give them
license to physically abuse their opponents and unnecessary physical
contact will be penalized under Rules 12/17.
A Referee, however, should not refuse lets in situations where the
player was clearly making every effort (albeit short of physical contact
with their opponent) to get to and play the ball and had demonstrated
to the Referee that they would have reached the ball.
In giving a decision the Referee must weigh up the amount of effort
being made by both players. In cases where the Referee assesses that
sufficient effort has not been made by either player, this should be
taken into account when making the decision.
G2. TIMING OF APPEALS
The timing of an appeal on interference is important.
In the case of an appeal concerning fairview and freedom to hit the ball
directly to the front wall (commonly known as "crossing the flight"),
the Referee must consider the situation at the time the player could
have hit the ball.
In the case of interference on backswing the appeal must be immediate,
and before the player makes any attempt to play the ball. Any attempt to
hit the ball after backswing interference has occurred indicates that
the striker has accepted the interference and thus forfeits the right of
appeal.
If in the act of playing the ball, which includes the downswing and hit,
there is interference, an appeal may be allowed. If this appeal is made
at the completion of the racket swing the Referee may allow a let or
award a stroke if in their opinion the interference has affected the
outcome of that return.
G3. METHOD OF APPEAL
The correct method of appeal in interference situations is with the
words "Let please".
Other forms of appeal are sometimes used by players including a raised
hand or racket, especially where communication between players and
Referee is poor.
A Referee accepting any form of appeal other than the standard "Let
please" must be satisfied that an appeal is actually being made (not a
rally conceded), if necessary clarifying this with the player.
G4. APPEALS
If a player makes a prompt appeal because of interference and their
opponent's service or return prior to that appeal subsequently goes down
or out, the Referee should not consider the appeal but should rule on
the service or return and award the stroke to the player
G5. CREATED INTERFERENCE
At all times a player must be allowed direct access to play the ball and
the opponent, having completed their own return, must always endeavor to
provide this direct access.
However, sometimes the situation arises where the opponent has caused no
interference (i.e. they have clearly provided the required direct
access) but the player has taken an indirect route to the ball which
takes them through, or very close to, the opponent's position. The
player then appeals for a let because they have been "obstructed" in
their access to the ball.
But there is no genuine reason for this indirect route. In effect the
player has "created their own interference" where none otherwise existed
and if the player appeals for a let they should not be allowed one.
Whether the player could have made a good return is not even a
consideration; in order to remain in the rally the player must get to
and play the ball.
This is not to be confused with two situations where a player in
attempting to extricate themselves from a position of disadvantage is
denied direct access to the ball. The first is where a player is "WRONG
FOOTED", and anticipates their opponent hitting the ball one way, starts
moving that way, but having guessed wrongly changes direction to find
their opponent in the way. In this situation a let should be allowed on
appeal if they have recovered so as to show conclusively that they could
have made a good return. In fact had the incoming striker been prevented
from playing a winning return then they may be awarded a stroke.
Secondly, if a player plays a poor return and puts their opponent in a
position of advantage they should only be given a let if, in taking the
direct line to the ball for their next return, they have shown
conclusively that, but for the interference, they would have been able
to get to the ball.
G6. UNNECESSARY PHYSICAL CONTACT
Unnecessary physical contact is both detrimental to the game and
potentially dangerous. In blatant cases the Referee should stop the
rally and award the appropriate penalty accordingly. The Referee should
also be aware of a player who "pushes off" their opponent. Where this
has no significant effect on the opponent, then the rally should be
allowed to continue and a warning given at the
end
of the rally.
G7. APPEALS FOR FEAR OF INJURY
When an appeal for a let has been made and there has been no
interference the Referee's decision is usually "No let". However,
occasionally, although interference as defined in Rule 12.2 does not
exist , there may be reasonable fear of injury in which case a let
should be allowed under Rule 13.1.3.
G8. BROKEN BALL
When the receiver makes an appeal prior to attempting to return the
service, the Referee has discretionary power to decide whether to replay
the previous rally or to allow a let in respect of the rally in which
the ball was found to be broken.
G9. CHANGE OF EQUIPMENT
In order to avoid the situation of one player gaining an unfair rest
interval through a change of equipment, the Referee should note that
before allowing a player to leave the court to change equipment, the
Referee must be satisfied that there has indeed been a material
deterioration of the equipment.
The preference for another racket, or a different pair of shoes where no
physical deterioration is evident, is not sufficient reason for allowing
a change of equipment. The Referee should also note that although up to
90 seconds are allowed for a change of equipment players are required to
carry out the change as quickly as possible.
If a player loses a contact lens or their glasses break, then following
the appropriate time interval for change of equipment, they must
continue play or an appropriate Rule 17 penalty will be applied.
If a player is unable to resume play because they have no alternative
equipment then the Referee should award the match to the opponent.
G10. ILLNESS/INJURY ON COURT
If, during a match, a player feels ill such that they need to leave the
court, they should advise the Referee who may allow them up to three
minutes to recover. If extra time beyond that permitted is needed or if
the Referee does not permit them recovery time, the player must concede
the game, take the 90-second interval, then be ready to resume play. A
player may concede only one game. If,
after
taking the 90-second interval, they are unable to continue play, they
shall then concede the match.
If, however, a player is sick on court, so that the court conditions are
such that play is prevented from continuing, then the Referee should
award the match to the opponent irrespective of whether the sick player
is able to continue or not (Rule 17 Conduct On Court).
Similarly, if a player suffers from a nose bleed and as a result the
court conditions are impaired to the extent that they are detrimental to
the match in progress, then the opponent should be awarded the match.
(NB: This refers to a "natural" nose bleed rather than one caused by
collision where the relevant injury rule would apply).
In all the above cases the Referee's decision with regard to court
conditions is final.
Players should note that where an injury is sustained which is entirely
self- inflicted, including injury caused by a player being struck by
their opponent's racket when the player has occupied an unnecessarily
close position to the opponent, a time interval of up to three minutes
(which can be extended solely at the discretion of the Referee) may be
permitted for the player to recover. After that the Referee will require
the player to continue; or concede the game, accept the interval and
then continue play; or concede the match.
Players should also note that irrespective of the cause of any injury
they are not permitted to resume play while a wound which is bleeding is
not securely covered or where blood flow continues from an uncovered
wound.
G11. TIME WASTING
Time wasting represents an attempt by one player to gain an unfair
advantage over their opponent. Prolonged discussion with the Referee and
slow preparation to serve or receive service are particularly mentioned
(Rule 16.6). Where this occurs the Referee should apply an appropriate
Rule 17 penalty at the earliest opportunity.
It should be noted that while excessive ball bouncing prior to service
does constitute time wasting, the server should not be considered to
have served their hand out.
During game intervals the Referee is required to call "15 seconds" to
indicate that the players have 15 seconds to return to court and be
ready to resume play. It is the responsibility of players to be within
earshot to hear the call.
Players should note that the call of "15 seconds" is advice to return to
court. A player who is not re ady
to resume play on the call of "Time" is deliberately or otherwise
gaining an unfair advantage and should be penalized under Rule 17.
G12. COACHING DURING MATCHES
Coaching of players may occur only during the interval between games.
Coaching should not be taken to mean brief comments of encouragement
between rallies which clearly have no effect on the continuity of play.
The Referee is expected to exercise discretion in deciding between such
comments and coaching a player.
The use of external communication aids is prohibited.
The Referee may stop coaching in any form during play by applying Rule
17, Conduct on Court, to the player being coached.
G13. PROGRESSION OF PENALTIES
The penalties available to the Referee under Rule 17 are:
A warning
A stroke
A game
The match
The guidelines for applying the penalties are as follows:
The first penalty imposed by the Referee for a particular offence may be
at any level to suit the seriousness of the offence, i.e. a warning,
stroke, game or match. However, any second or subsequent penalty for the
same type of offence may not be of a lesser severity than the previous
penalty for that offence. Thus the Referee may award several warnings or
several strokes for the same type of offence if they felt that the
offence did not warrant a stronger punishment.
When issuing penalties the Referee should use the following terminology:
Conduct warning...... (player's name) for ....... (offence).
Conduct stroke......... (player's name) for....... (offence), stroke to
(opponent's name)
Conduct game.......... (player's name) for ..... (offence), game to
(opponent's name)
Conduct match........ (player's name) for ..... (offence), match to
(opponent's name).
G14. SINGLE OFFICIAL
It may not always be possible to have two officials for a match. A
single official would act as the Marker initially, but when there was an
appeal they would then take on the role of the Referee and give their
decision, on appeal, as the Referee.
Whilst this situation is not recommended, it does happen, and the single
official should know that they act as the Marker and then on appeal, as
Referee. It is not correct to say that because there is only one
official there is no Referee.
G15. MARKER'S CALLS
The Marker must call to stop a rally if, in their opinion, a player has
failed to deliver a good service or to make a good return.
However, if because of a service or return which was obviously not good,
both players cease play without the Marker making a call, then the
appropriate call of "Not up", "Down" or "Out" may be omitted.
21. PROPOSED 1997 SINGLES SQUASH RULES
As many Players and Officials will know the Rules of Squash go in 4 year
cycles. This is to avoid the continual amendment of Squash Rules which has in
the past caused confusion. Now no amendment may be made to the Rules of
Squash
within that 4 year period although this does not apply to Appendices and
Official Guidelines. The current period ends on the 1st of May, 1997 and
much work has been done by various Members/Bodies of the World Squash
Federation and in particular by the Rules and Referees Committee.
A 1st Draft of the proposed changes was issued in July, 1995 and a
Timetable made as follows:-
November 1995. WSF Seminar for discussion on proposed 1997 rules
package. This will take place in Cyprus at the Annual WSF AGM and
Conference.
December 1995. 2nd Draft including amendments agreed upon at Seminar
will be sent to all WSF Member Nations.
January-June 1966. Consideration of proposed draft by WSF Member Nations
and submission in writing of any proposed amendments.
July 1996. Submission of proposed draft by WSF together with written
submissions and Rules and Referees Committee Recommendations.
August 1996. Circulation of final draft to WSF Member Nations.
September/October 1996. WSF Annual General Meeting discussion of final
draft and approval of the rules package.
1st May 1997. New rules become effective.
Major Changes
The following are the proposals made in the first draft.
The World Game. It is proposed that the name of the game be World,
rather than international, to conform with the name of the organization,
World Squash Federation. Therefore the rules would become the Rules of
the World Singles Game and of the World doubles Game.
Injury. The injury situation has become such that the committee believes
a separate rule is necessary. Injury has in the past always been a part
of Continuity of Play, currently Rule 16. Rather than create an
additional rule number, the committee has moved Let from Rule 7 to a
definition (with the advent of single service squash, Let has become a
rule of two lines). Continuity of Play fits conveniently at the Rule 7
position and Injury becomes Rule 16.
Non Gender Specific. The rules have been made non gender specific, i.e.
there are no longer any he/him/his words (and no note to say that this
also means she/her). A great deal of minor wording change was involved
to effect this. Although, overall, there are probably a few more words
in the rules with this change, the committee believes that this more
than justifies the result which must help to promote squash as a male
and female sport.
Refereeing Systems. Without any definite decision on a preferred
alternative refereeing system to the standard one, the committee has
created an appendix to permit further experimentation with the three
systems involved and will provide brief descriptions of these systems
for the appendix.
Note: The three
systems referred to are a) Three Judge original system, b) Three Judge
modified system and c) Two Judge system. Details are not presently
generally available).
Dropped Object. With some safeguards, a Canadian proposal has been
adopted to stipulate that a player who drops anything on the floor of
the court where a rally is in progress shall lose the stroke. For
safety's sake the Referee will now always stop play if seeing anything
fall to the floor of the court, whether from player, spectator or any
other source. This situation has been a "grey" area in squash rules and
the proposed rule will both tighten up and clarify the circumstances of
a dropped object.
Note: The new
proposed Rule 7.7 covers this but does say "other than a player's
racket". If this occurs it is proposed that the rally is allowed to
proceed as the player dropping the racket is already at an
disadvantage).
Squash Rules from the
World Squash Federation website.
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