Update WSO3 – August 2024 Directives for the PSA Squash Tour

PSA Squash Tour: WSO Directives will clarify the Rules of Squash (referred to in this Directive as “Rule” or “Rules”) and the interpretation applicable to the professional game. These directives will be published regularly as and when required.

---

FOOT FAULTS

Rule of Squash 5.7.2 states, that when the time the server strikes the ball, one foot must be in contact with the floor inside the service box, with no part of that foot touching any boundary of that box.

WSO Clarification on Foot Faults: Moving forward, referees will call a ‘fault’ if they observe a foot fault during the serve.

Q1: Why are Foot Faults Going to be Called Moving Forward?
The clarification aims to address a significant issue and ensure consistent application of service rules. Foot faults have been frequently observed but inconsistently penalised. Referees will be more vigilant due to the growing number of foot faults, as players may gain a competitive advantage. This rule is part of the official Rules of Squash and should be adhered to by players and enforced by referees.

Q2: Can a ‘Fault’ call for a Foot Fault be reviewed?
No, because a ‘Fault’ call for a Foot Fault is considered a line call, and line calls cannot be reviewed by a player. However, if there is conclusive evidence available to the Video Referee before the next serve, they can intervene and overrule the original call. The aim of this process is to ensure consistency within the Video Review system.

SPEED OF PLAY

Rule of Squash 5.6 states, ‘After the Marker has called the score, both players must resume play without unnecessary delay. The server must not serve before the receiver is ready.’

WSO Clarification of the Speed of Play: Both players must be ready to serve and receive serve immediately after the Match Referee announces the score. The referee will call the score in accordance with the flow of the game, ensuring a natural and fair pace. This directive ensures a fair and uninterrupted flow of the game, enhancing the viewing experience for spectators. By addressing and penalising delay tactics, we aim to maintain the match’s pace and excitement. Any delay tactics will be subject to the code of conduct as outlined below.

Q1: What are Examples of Delaying Play?

1. Excessive Ball Bouncing or Handling: Taking unusually long to bounce the ball before serving can disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and provide extra rest.
2. Delayed Serving: Taking extra time to serve after the referee calls the score, such as adjusting grip, unnecessary untying or tying of shoelaces, or towel-wiping.
3. Hitting the Ball Between Rallies: Hitting the ball back and forth to oneself between rallies or after a video review.
4. Prolonged Discussions with the Referee: Extended discussions or arguments with the referee.
5. Frequent Towel Breaks: Taking longer than necessary to towel off sweat, especially during crucial points during a match.
6. Injury Timeouts: Players must ensure that injury timeouts are requested only for genuine injuries at the time they happen. The Match Referee will closely monitor and assess injury timeout requests to prevent any misuse for tactical advantages, including obtaining rest or disrupting the opponent’s momentum. Please refer to WSO1 Aug 23 Directive Point 1 on Injury for further guidance.
7. Slow Walking Between Points: Walking slowly to retrieve the ball or to the starting position after a rally ends, including flicking the ball to another area of the court.
8. Strategic Requests for Court Cleaning: Asking for court cleaning more frequently than necessary or causing unnecessary cleaning by creating sweat on the court through unnecessary diving or kneeling while tying shoelaces.

These areas have been brought to the attention of the referees to interpret and act upon, ensuring fair play and maintaining the match’s pace.

Q2: What measures will be taken to address delaying play?

• Delaying Play Tactics and Conducts
• Conduct Warnings: Issued for the first instance of delaying play.
• Conduct Strokes: Awarded for repeated offences.
• Consistency: The aim of the directives for players and referees is for referees to apply these guidelines consistently. By implementing these measures, we aim to reduce tactics that delay play and create fair and exciting competition for both players and spectators.

Q3: What is Considered a Reasonable Time Between Rallies?
The guideline for reasonable time between rallies is around 15 seconds. This time is intended to ensure a smooth and continuous flow of the match. While 15 seconds is seen as the maximum time needed in a typical situation, rallies can and should begin more quickly if both players are ready. The referee will interpret the situation and apply discretion to maintain the pace of the game.

PLAYER DISSENT

Rule of Squash 15 states, ‘If a player’s conduct is unacceptable, the Referee must penalise the player, stopping play if necessary. Unacceptable behaviour includes dissent to an Official (Rule 15.6.5), audible or visible obscenity (Rule 15.6.1), verbal, physical, or any other form of abuse (Rule 15.6.2).’

WSO Clarification of Player Dissent on the PSA Tour: Dissent is where a player
challenges, either audibly and/or visibly, the referee’s authority or competency at any time before, during or after a match or tournament. This includes attempting to sway, vary or change the outcome of the referee’s decision. Examples of dissent may be repeated questioning, arguing, shouting, use of an aggressive tone or disrespectful comments.

This behaviour will result in code of conduct consequences based on the severity. Players must accept decisions respectfully and maintain constructive communication with the referee throughout the match.