KUALA LUMPUR – The Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (STAM) has sent a letter of protest to the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) on the implementation of the new 15-point system set for next year.
STAM tested the new scoring system in the recent Tun Ali Cup in Melaka.
Its president, Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan said the new scoring system shortened the games too much, killing the excitement of competition.
According to him, a two set game will end in 30 minutes and if there is a rubber game, the match could be extended for another 15 minutes.
“We have tried out the new scoring system in a demonstration game at the Tun Ali Cup (between Selangor against Terengganu and ATM against Phitsanulok.
“We used two types of services in the demonstration games. The first is one serve every regu and two serves every regu (consecutively and taking turns every two serves).
“The uniqueness of sepak takraw will be diminished if this new scoring system is implemented.
“Fans too won’t be satisfied watching the games because it’s too short and that is why we do not agree to the new system,” Sumali told reporters
Sumali said the association has sent a letter and video of both the demonstration matches for reference to ISTAF to reconsider the implementation of the 15-point scoring system.
STAM suggested that the 21-point system be retained.
“We also suggested that one service for each regu in the 21-point system,” added Sumali.
ISTAF had decided in September to go back to the 15 point scoring system starting February 2 next year.
However, the world governing body retained the three services per regu system. – November 27, 2023