PETALING JAYA: National mixed doubles head coach Nova Widianto believes the proposed 15x3 scoring system could favour European players over their Asian counterparts.
Nova said the shorter format may suit European players, who could adapt more quickly thanks to their playing style and practice routines.
"I think those who may benefit the most are the Europeans. From what I see, their training load is not as intense. I have trained with them several times and in my opinion, they could gain the most from the 15-point system," said Nova.
However, he does not expect players from other regions to struggle with the change. Nova believes his charges, including Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei and Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Hui, are also capable of adapting well.
"For my players, I think Tang Jie and Ee Wei, as well as Pang Ron, will be fine with 15 points because their strength is in attack. It may even make things easier for them.
"But I also think China could adapt well too. They are fast and have many young players, so the format may suit them as well," he added.
For Nova and his players, there is also keen anticipation over whether the change will be fully implemented or if the 21-point system will remain, with the final decision set for April 25 at the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Annual General Meeting in Horsens, Denmark.
If international tournaments do adopt the 15x3 format, Nova is already preparing to incorporate it into their daily training sessions.
"I haven’t monitored it closely yet, and I feel 15 points makes the games move very quickly. But if it is decided, we have no choice but to follow the rules and adjust our training accordingly. I think the most important thing is to stay focused," he added.
In line with her coach, Ee Wei is ready to accept any changes and will try to adapt if the 15-point system is introduced.
"I do not want to comment much. Whatever points they decide on, as players we have to accept and adapt.
"Besides, we have already tried playing with the 15-point system during training," she said.
