Who referees a sqay bout?
A · Advanced · The Loba fight · 2 of 3A centre and an assistant referee run the bout, with a rotational referee, a chief jury, a scorer, an assistant scorer and a timekeeper. The chief jury settles disputes. If a player is hurt, the referee stops at once and calls the doctor. Only a manager or coach may protest, in writing within 20 minutes of the bout.
How it works
- Centre referee: runs the bout.
- Assistant referee: helps with points.
- Rotational referee: takes turns.
- Chief jury: settles disputes.
- Injury: stop, call the doctor.
- Declared unfit: out of the event.
- Protest: coach or manager.
- Time: 20 minutes, in writing.
The glossary has the injury rules (sqay), the protest (sqay), the Loba officials, the centre referee (sqay), the chief jury (sqay) and the Ogatah.
Tricky cases
Both players are hurt and cannot go on. Result?
The one with more points wins; if level, the chief jury and two referees decide.
A player quits after a minor injury. Result?
They lose the bout.
Can a player protest?
No. Only the manager or coach.
Who checks eligibility certificates?
The record keeper.
Why the rule exists
Letting only the doctor judge fitness keeps an injured player from being pushed to go on.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Both hurt | More points wins | L Q 5 |
| Minor injury | Quitting loses | L Q 5 |
| Protest | 20 minutes | L Q 6 |
From the rule book
International Council of Sqay, Sqay Rule Book (Rules and Regulations), pages 2, 5 and 6. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: ICSQAY Sqay Rule Book, Sqay Federation of India copy.