In the first signs of change since squash was given Olympic status last October, strict American TV bosses have told squash to cut out player interactions with referees if the sport wants to be broadcast in the US. 

At Januarys Tournament of Champions, US broadcaster NBC, which holds Olympic broadcasting rights, was understood to be in attendance.

Squash chiefs have taken on feedback and a second referees directive which came into effect days before the Windy City Open in February has since been issued and emailed to all players registered by the PSA.

Feedback indicates that the current length and manner of player-referee interactions make it unlikely for squash to be televised in America, said World Squash Officiating (WSO), the online education and appraisal portal designed to standardise officiating qualifications worldwide.

This feedback is crucial as we aim to build upon the inclusion of squash in major events like the Olympics. Although this decision may seem strict, its necessary for the future success and appeal of the sport.

Referees are being told to clamp down on players asking for explanations due to an increase in continued and extended discussions during matches. 

It is at the discretion of the referee to determine whether an explanation for a decision is necessary or not, says the WSO. Players may request but are not entitled to explanations from the referee and must accept decisions and explanations made by the referee without question.

The WSO says that despite efforts to reduce such behaviour, there have been instances of extreme examples during recent events. The WSO didnt elaborate on these specifics, but it is clear that the WSO is taking a hard stance on player dissent.

The WSO, which harbours aims of adding more professional referees to its roster, says there will now be a stricter approach regarding the provision of explanations for decisions by the Referee.

According to WSO directives, launched earlier this season, a player may request an explanation, but do not have the right to an explanation. The rules state that it is up to the referees discretion to provide an explanation.

Any inappropriate comments made by a player before or after a decision or explanation will be handled following the Code of Conduct, the WSO states. Players must accept the decisions and explanations given by the referee without engaging in further discussion. 

Referees will be stricter in addressing negative interactions and may give a conduct stroke for the first offense if comments or dissent are considered too much. If the misconduct continues, the Referee will award a conduct game.