In a historic decision, the Badminton World Federation has officially approved a new scoring system. During the annual general meeting held in Horsens, Denmark, it was decided by a two-thirds majority that international badminton matches will now be played based on three games of 15 points instead of 21.

This new rule will come into effect worldwide on January 4, 2027. With this decision, the nearly two-decade-long '3×21' format, which replaced the old scoring system in 2006, will come to an end. BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul described this historic decision as a milestone for the future of badminton.

She argued that the shorter 15-point format will not only make matches more exciting and intense but will also make the duration of matches more predictable. The federation believes that the shorter format will reduce the physical burden on players, leading to better recovery and longer careers. The aim of this change is to connect the new generation of audiences to the sport and make it more dynamic in terms of broadcasting.

Although the number of points has been reduced, the BWF clarified that the core nature, skills, and strategies of the game will remain unchanged. Under the new rules, a two-point lead will be required in case of a tie at 14-14, while the maximum point limit is set at 21 (meaning that in a 20-20 tie, the player winning the 21st point will win the game). However, some senior players like Saina Nehwal have expressed concerns about the traditional character of the game, but the federation has assured that this innovation will further strengthen badminton's reputation in global competition.

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Rajkot: As part of the School Games Festival 2025-26, the Office of the Rajkot District Sports Officer organized a district-level girls' badminton tournament at the Diya Kumbhar Multipurpose Indoor Stadium. The event was conducted under the aegis of the Department of Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities of the Gujarat Government and the Sports Authority of Gujarat.

The competition featured matches in three age categories: Under-14, Under-17, and Under-19, attracting a total of 156 participants. In the Under-14 category, which saw participation from 72 players, Shreya Denis Adesara from S.N.K. School secured the first position, followed by Niyati Dodia from the same school in second place, and Anushka Dave from Nirmala Convent School in third place.

In the Under-17 category with 63 players, Nyasa Makwana from G.K. Dholakia School claimed the top spot. Saachi Antala and Harshvi Jhala, both from S.N.K. School, took second and third places respectively. The Under-19 category saw participation from 21 players, with Janviba Chudasama from Tapasvi School emerging as the winner. Hetvi Gandhi and Misty Chhaniyara, both representing S.N.K. School, secured the second and third positions.

As per agency report, the Rajkot District Sports Office congratulated all the winners and extended best wishes for their future tournaments. The School Games Festival aims to promote interest in sports among students and provide them with a competitive platform to showcase their talents.

Surat, May 2 – The League Badminton Tournament, organized under the aegis of the Surat District Cricket Association (SDCA), commenced with great enthusiasm at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium. The opening ceremony, held on May 2, 2025, was led by Badminton Committee Convener Anilbhai Juneja, who officially launched the tournament with the participation of eight "Little Masters" honored in the under-11, 13, 14, and under-17 age categories.

This highly anticipated league features a total of eight teams from Surat city and South Gujarat, bringing together 120 young players competing across various age groups. The event aims to showcase emerging talent and provide a competitive platform for youth passionate about badminton.

The tournament is being conducted under the capable leadership of SDCA President Kanhaiyabhai Contractor and Secretary Hiteshbhai Patel, with Anilbhai Juneja at the helm of the organizing committee. The Dream City Badminton Association is also actively contributing to the successful execution of the event.

As per agency report, the tournament is expected to offer young athletes a significant opportunity to demonstrate their skills, enhance their game, and gain competitive exposure in a professionally organized environment.

The State-Level Khel Mahakumbh 0.3 Badminton Tournament, organized by the Sports Authority of Gujarat, was held from April 18 to 20, 2025, at the Indore Sports Complex in Rajkot. The event witnessed participation from athletes representing various districts of Gujarat, competing across different age categories and showcasing their skills.

Players from Vadodara district delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament. In the singles category for players above 60 years of age, Dhanji Savaliya achieved a remarkable feat by winning the gold medal for the third consecutive time, completing a hat-trick and setting an inspiring example.

In the doubles event for the same age category, the duo of Jayesh Bhalawala and D.B. Savaliya secured a silver medal. Meanwhile, in the 40+ men’s doubles category, Gopal Thakkar and Jiken Shah also brought pride to Vadodara by claiming silver.

Vadodara players excelled in mixed doubles as well. In the 40+ category, the pair of Kajal and Gopal Thakkar earned a silver medal, further highlighting the city's dominance in the competition.

The outstanding performance by Vadodara athletes generated immense enthusiasm and pride among badminton enthusiasts. Their achievements proved that age is merely a number and that with passion and dedication, any goal is within reach.

Bengaluru, February 25 – The Karnataka High Court has dismissed the petitions filed by badminton player Lakshya Sen, his family, and his coach U Vimal Kumar, challenging the investigation into alleged tampering with birth certificates. The court stated that there is prima facie evidence suggesting the need for further investigation into the matter.

The case originated from a private complaint filed by M.G. Nagraj, who accused Lakshya Sen's parents, Dhirendra and Nirmala Sen, his brother Chirag Sen, coach U Vimal Kumar, and an employee of the Karnataka Badminton Association of falsifying birth records. The complaint alleged that the birth certificates of Lakshya and Chirag Sen were tampered with to reduce their ages by approximately two years and six months. This purported manipulation aimed to allow the brothers to participate in age-restricted badminton tournaments and gain government benefits.

Nagraj supported his claims with documents obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act and requested the court to summon original records from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, New Delhi. Following this, the High Court directed the High Grounds Police Station to investigate the matter.

In response to the court's directives, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) under sections 420 (cheating), 468 (forgery), and 471 (using forged documents as genuine) of the Indian Penal Code. However, the petitioners approached the Karnataka High Court in 2022 and secured an interim order that temporarily halted the investigation.

The petitioners argued that the complaint and the FIR were baseless, malicious, and intended to harass them. They alleged that Nagraj brought up the issue due to personal animosity, as his daughter had applied for admission to the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy in 2020 but was not selected following the evaluation process. Since Vimal Kumar is a coach at this academy, his name was also included in the complaint.

Justice M.G. Uma, while dismissing the petitions, noted that the petitioners' counsel was given ample opportunity to present arguments but failed to do so. The judge also declined the request for additional time.

In the ruling, Justice Uma stated, "When there is prima facie evidence on record that establishes the offenses, there is no justification to halt the investigation or quash the criminal proceedings." The court further emphasized that the complainant had provided substantial documentary evidence through the RTI, reinforcing the need for a thorough investigation.

Qingdao, China, February 14 – India’s campaign at the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship 2025 came to a disappointing end, as the team suffered a 0-3 loss to a second-string Japan squad in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Despite being the bronze medalists in the 2023 edition held in Dubai, India struggled to find momentum and was outclassed by 2017 champions Japan, who were missing several of their top-ranked players.

The quarter-final clash began with Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto in the mixed doubles event, where they faced Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito. The Indian pair lost in three sets with a scoreline of 13-21, 21-17, 13-21, giving Japan an early lead.

With PV Sindhu absent due to injury, India's women’s singles hopes rested on Malvika Bansod, who took on Tomoka Miyazaki. Bansod fought hard but fell short in straight sets, 12-21, 19-21, putting India in a 0-2 deficit.

The responsibility to keep India alive in the tournament was on HS Prannoy, but the 32-year-old shuttler, who has struggled for form this season, couldn't sustain the pressure against world No. 16 Kenta Nishimoto. After a grueling one hour and 17-minute battle, Nishimoto secured a 21-14, 15-21, 21-12 victory, sealing Japan’s 3-0 win and India's elimination.

The defeat was particularly disappointing for India, considering that Japan had fielded a relatively weaker squad without their top-ranked players. India's early exit highlights the team's ongoing struggles and inconsistencies on the international stage, despite promising performances in past editions.

Qingdao, China, February 12 – India made a powerful start to its campaign at the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship, securing a resounding 5-0 win over Macau in their Group D opener on Wednesday. With this victory, the Indian team has advanced to the quarterfinals and will now face South Korea in their final group-stage match on Thursday.

The mixed doubles duo of Satish Kumar Karunakaran and National Games gold medalist Adya Variyath set the tone with a 21-10, 21-9 victory over Lok Chong Leong and Weng Chi Eng in the opening match.

In the men’s singles, 2021 World Championship bronze medalist Lakshya Sen showcased his dominance, defeating Pang Fong Pui 21-16, 21-12.

India continued its winning momentum in the women’s singles, as Malvika Bansod outplayed Hao Wai Wan with a 21-15, 21-9 triumph.

The men’s doubles duo of Chirag Shetty and M.R. Arjun also put up a commanding performance, securing a 21-15, 21-19 win against Chin Pon Pui and Kok Wen Wong.

India completed the 5-0 sweep in the women’s doubles, with Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand dismantling Eng Weng Chi and Pui Chi Wa in a swift 21-10, 21-5 victory.

With this comprehensive win, India has set the stage for a crucial clash against South Korea, where a victory would further solidify their standing in the tournament.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] July 18 : Dosti Realty, a well-established player in the real estate sector known for delivering exceptional residential experiences and elevated lifestyle projects across the Mumbai Metropolitan Area, has launched a state-of-the-art badminton training centre – Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal at its project Dosti West County – Balkum, Thane (W). 

Badminton Pros Academy in the Dosti Club County at Dosti West County will be managed by the well-known club operators Ileseum Clubs adding an additional glam to the sporting facilities there. Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal was inaugurated on July 5, 2024, with Saina Nehwal adding a touch of star sporting power to the occasion.

The training academy and badminton courts are integral parts of the luxurious clubhouse – Dosti Club County within Dosti West County. Dosti Club County epitomises a holistic lifestyle, reflecting Dosti Realty’s unwavering commitment to providing residents with an exceptional living experience. Saina Nehwal’s Badminton Pros Academy, brought on board by the renowned Ileseum Clubs in partnership with Dosti Realty, ensures that residents enjoy a larger-than-life experience with various amenities and services.

With the commissioning of Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal, residents will receive the valuable opportunity to engage in physical activity, promoting fitness and well-being conveniently and enjoyably. Dosti Realty has tried to bridge the gap between the often-limited sporting culture and the growing need for exercise in our country. The badminton court, a cornerstone of this initiative, offers residents of all ages an opportunity to embrace a healthier lifestyle, underscoring Dosti Realty’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life through sports and recreation.

Commenting on the launch of the Badminton Pros Academy by shuttling champ Saina Nehwal, Mr. Anuj Goradia, Director – Dosti Realty said, “At Dosti Realty, our mission has been to elevate the living experience of our residents. The launch of the world-class Badminton Pros Academy at Dosti West County is a testament to our commitment to providing superior category amenities that foster a healthy and active lifestyle. Having Saina Nehwal, a badminton legend involved with us through her academy, is a tremendous honour and highlights our commitment to fostering a community that gets the best of life.”

Ms. Shraddha Goradia, Director – Dosti Realty said, “We believe in creating communities that offer more than just homes. The addition of the Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal and our partnerships with renowned cultural and recreational institutions underscores our dedication to enriching the lives of our residents at Dosti West County.”

Ms. Saina Nehwal, Indian Professional Badminton Player, and Former World No. 1 said, “I am thrilled to bring my Badminton Pros Academy to Dosti West County through Ileseum Clubs at Balkum, Thane (W). Facilities like these are essential for nurturing young talent and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. This academy will provide residents with professional training and access to world-class coaching, helping to foster a community that values fitness and sportsmanship. It’s wonderful to see Dosti Realty’s commitment to providing top-notch amenities that inspire residents to engage in sports and fitness.” 

Mr. Nitin Nagpal, Director – Sales and Marketing, Dosti Realty said, “Dosti West County is designed to provide a holistic living experience. Dosti Realty has always been known for pushing its own benchmarks and here we have done just that even within the amenities provided, we are giving residents not just a state-of-the-art badminton court but also the opportunity to train under the famous Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal.”

Mr Pavit Singh, Ileseum Clubs, Founder and Partner of Ileseum Sports and Clubs LLP – “Partnering with Badminton Pros Academy by Saina Nehwal, a celebrated badminton champion’s training academy, is truly inspiring for our residents. Her dedication and achievements in the sports arena serve as a powerful motivation for many aspiring residents within our community who are passionate about badminton. At Ileseum, we believe that India is going to be the global superpower for the next 30 years, and to unleash our true potential, the population needs to be socially, emotionally, and physically fit. We want to create communities driven by active living through these partnerships.”

Dosti Realty has consistently set high standards for excellent living experiences, continually pushing its own benchmarks. The independent clubhouse culture, first introduced by Dosti Realty in Dosti Acres in Mumbai in 2005, has now been elevated to new heights with the facilities at Dosti West County, epitomising luxury and recreation. Dosti West County is a thriving community with over 900 families already residing there and an additional 3050+ families eagerly awaiting the completion of their residences in the under-construction towers. Offering a diverse range of 1 BHK, 2 BHK, and 3 BHK homes, Dosti West County ensures a perfect fit for every lifestyle. The latest offerings at Dosti West County reinforce Dosti Realty’s reputation for delivering exceptional living experiences, combining luxurious amenities with a vibrant, connected community.

Dosti West County – Phase 5 – Dosti Olive – Wing B project is registered under MahaRERA No. P51700054037, Dosti West County – Phase 6 – Dosti Maple project is registered under MahaRERA No. P51700054424, Dosti West County – Phase 7 – Dosti Willow project is registered under MahaRERA No. P51700056278, Dosti West County – Phase 4 – Dosti Pine projects registered under MahaRERA No. P51700025834, Dosti West County – Phase 3 – Dosti Westwood project is registered under MahaRERA No. P51700015501, Dosti West County – Dosti Nest – Phase 1, 2, 3 & 4 is registered under MahaRERA Nos. P51700033640, P51700033663, P51700049724 & P51700050253, and is available on the website – https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in under registered projects. The right to admission, use, and enjoyment of all or any of the facilities/amenities in the Dosti Club County is reserved by the Promoters and shall be subject to payment of such admission fees, annual charges, and compliance of terms and conditions as may be specified from time to time by the Promoters. Please note that the sale/lease of premises in the above-referred project shall be subject to and governed by the terms and conditions of the Agreement for Sale/lease. T&C Apply.

About Dosti Realty

Dosti Realty has been in the real estate business for over four decades and has delivered more than 129 properties, encompassing a portfolio of over 11.70 mn—sq. ft. Dosti Realty is constructing over 21 mn. sq.ft across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and Pune. It has sold homes to 15,800+ happy families and continues transforming the skyline with its developments. The company has experience in various development types, like Residential, Retail, IT Parks, Educational Institutes, etc. Over the years, it has been known for its Aesthetics, Innovation, Quality, Timely Delivery, Trust, and Transparency, values that have built lasting relationships.

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Basel, March 23: Indian badminton star Kidambi Srikanth continued his resurgence on the international stage, reaching the semifinals of the Swiss Open Super 300 tournament. Srikanth dominated his quarterfinal match against Chia Hao Lee of Chinese Taipei, winning in straight games (21-10, 21-14).

The Indian shuttler displayed exceptional control throughout the match. He established a lead early in the first game and never looked back, showcasing his composure and superior skills to seal the victory. Srikanth's attacking prowess continued to shine in the second game, leaving Lee with little room for resistance. With this win, Srikanth advances to the semifinals where he will face Lin Chun Yi of Chinese Taipei.

However, the news wasn't all positive for India. Other Indian participants, Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George, were eliminated from the tournament after losing their respective matches. In the women's doubles category, Tressa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand's Olympic qualification hopes suffered a setback as they fell to the Australian pair of Setyana Mapasa and Angela Yu. The defeat leaves Treesa and Gayatri facing a challenging climb to secure their spot in the upcoming Olympic Games.