After the grand success of inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL), BAI president Dr Akhilesh Das Gupta has said that there is a possibility of making a few changes in the next edition like including women’s doubles, having a review system in place and advancing the timings of the matches.

“Both genders play the game with equal enthusiasm and that is exactly why IBL has received so much of popularity, success and attention. Keeping this interest in mind it will be interesting to include woman’s doubles if format, time and situation allows,” Das Gupta said.

“Women’s doubles is a very important part of world badminton. Like men’s category, even women have three formats at the Olympics and team world events. I personally feel we can have women’s doubles included but surely this is my personal opinion and not of the IBL’s.

“Such inclusion will depend on whether the format allows or not. And is this a feasible option, that has to be seen,” he added.

Das Gupta also said that he favoured bringing in a review system in the next edition of the IBL.

“In all likelihood, there is a possibility of bringing in the review system. There were some controversial decisions, so keeping that in mind we will in all likelihood have decision review system from next year,” he said.

The Rajya Sabha MP said that the timing of the ties may be tweaked after consulting with the broadcasters.

“We want families to come out and watch matches and have fun at least for five hours and that was the idea and will work on it to make it more interesting next year.

“May be seeing the time stretch we might work to start little early but nothing concrete has been decided yet. We have to talk to the host broadcaster also. Let’s see what best we can come up with,” he added.

comment COMMENT NOW