11/02/2026
Summary of new rule changes
1. Game Timings and Intervals (Rule 7)
• Between Games: The break between games has been increased from 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
• Warm-up: The interval between the warm-up and the start of play is reduced to 1 minute.
• Equipment Change: Time allowed for changing damaged equipment is increased to 2 minutes
2. Interference and Access (Rule 8)
• "Access to the Ball" Rule: The requirement for "unobstructed direct access" has been simplified to just "access to the ball".
Access to the ball demonstration: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1175376677859519
• Swing Interference: Rules have been updated to note that a let is allowed if the swing "could have been" affected by the opponent's position (not just physical contact).
• Stricter Clearing: Players must still make every effort to clear. Standing still after a shot to block an opponent is now more likely to result in a stroke
3. Court Conditions and Safety (Wet Patches)
• Sweat/Wet Floor: If a player creates a wet patch (e.g., through diving or falling), they cannot immediately request a let for safety.
• Playing Through: If a wet patch exists, the opponent must immediately ask for a let, or play through it. If they play on, they cannot later request a let for that same spot
Explanation: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQpzlj3AjCt/
4. Turning
• Definition: A new, more precise definition of "turning" is used, occurring when a player loses sight of the ball or the opponent, or the ball passes behind their body.
• Stroke/Let: If a player turns and interference occurs, a stroke is awarded if the swing was prevented, or a let is allowed if the non-striker had no time to avoid the interference
Turning demonstration: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=4304881919833391
5. Conduct and Officiating (Rule 14)
• Influencing Referees: "Attempting to influence the referee" is now a specific, actionable conduct offence.
Explanation of influencing the referee rule: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQiKIP5CP8m/
• Definition of Illness: The definition now includes physical impediments such as cramps, blisters, and nausea
6. Illness / Injuries (Rule 13)
• Pre-existing Injuries: If a pre-existing wound reopens, the player must immediately concede the current game to receive treatment.
• Timing: Recovery time now begins immediately when the referee announces the injury category
Singles Rules (2025) -https://www.worldsquash.sport/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/250901_World-Squash-Rules-of-Singles-Squash-2025-V1.2.2.pdf
International Doubles Rules (2022) - https://www.worldsquash.sport/rules-of-squash-2/
Rules of Squash Singles Rules 2025 Effective 1 September 2025 International Doubles Rules 2022 Effective 1 January 2022 International Hardball Doubles Rules 2024 Effective 1 January 2024 – changes approved World Squash EGM 2025
