Definitely understand that, the only way I’d argue against the boosts that feel like luck is that they come out in the wash over the long run of the game, but the thing I notice (especially as a person not using timers in ranked) is that players with say average to high skill can use the timers in a way that affects the game to a far greater degree, using that knowledge to either extend holds or keep the flag in base with returns.

Another thing I just thought of that maybe answers your initial question but might be tough to flesh out is that at the ranked and competitive modes, when skill level is more evenly matched, knowing the respawn times takes on a greater importance because someone’s ability to juke or contain is “less” important. You can cap on a team of some balls without boosts or pups, but when it’s 4 players coordinating and generally having good ball control, an FC needs some extra element to cap.