Question Number: 32068

Law 15 - The Throw In 11/29/2017

RE: Adult

Muhammad Rizwan Khan of Abbottabad, KPK P asks...

Sir, During a throw-in if someone not follows the proper procedure I mean if he lift the feet from the ground while throw-in simply referee here award throw-in to opposite team or for any other mistake. My question is that if ball is not in play then why they change their restart? I think throw-in should be retaken? what you say?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Muhammad
The ball is in play the moment the ball is thrown and crosses the touchline. A simple reading of Law 15 tells us
* For any other infringement of this Law the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team*
If the ball does not enter the field of play again a reading of Law 15 tells us
* The ball is in play when it enters the field of play. If the ball touches the ground before entering, the throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position. If the throw-in is not taken correctly it is retaken by the opposing team.*
So again a clear statement that an incorectly taken throw in is turned over even if the ball does not enter the field of play.