The Basics of Sepak Takraw: How Is It Played—More Importantly, How Do You Win a Match?

All around the world, there are sports that are popular in specific countries or regions only. A perfect example of that is Sepak Takraw. Popular in Asian countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, Sepak Takraw resembles volleyball.

However, the big difference is instead of using their hands, players have to use their feet.

Curious as to how that works and how a match is won? Here's what you have to know about the sport.

The Sepak Takraw Basics

Also known as "foot volleyball," Sepak Takraw is essentially a mix of volleyball and soccer. It is a team sport and makes use of a ball made of rattan or plastic.

Two teams go head-to-head in a match that typically takes place in a court that has a similar size to a badminton court. Each team has two to four players, but the number is typically pegged at three.

Like volleyball, the goal is for the ball to go over the net and land inside the opponent's court. However, hands cannot be used. Instead, players can use their feet, knees, and even their chests and heads.

How Do You Win a Sepak Takraw Match?

Sepak Takraw has the same rules as volleyball. The ball can only be hit thrice before it has to go over the net to the opponent's side.

In addition, a team scores a point when the opponent is not able to return to the ball or hits it out of bounds. For example, if Team A is able to send the ball over but Team B fails to catch it, the point goes to Team A.

If Team A strikes the ball and sends it out of bounds, the point goes to Team B.

Sepak Takraw follows a best-of-three format, which means a team must win two sets in order to win. A set is won when a team reaches 21 points (maximum of 25 points). A team must win by at least two points.