Having bunkers defined as waste areas- see Sand Valley- allows a good compromise. Yes, the good player in manicured sand can hit a fine shot. This defeats the purpose of the bunker. It is a hazard, supposedly a 1/2 shot penalty (or higher in many cases). Why should bunkers be the preferred bail-out for the good player? A waste area allows the club to be grounded, but requires a shot from a lousy lie. And all the best.