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14. THE BALL
14.1 At any
time, when the ball is not in actual play, either player or the
Referee may examine the ball. The Referee may substitute another
ball by mutual consent of the players, or on appeal by either
player.
14.2 If a
ball breaks during play, the Referee, after confirming it is
broken, shall replace it promptly with another ball.
14.3 If the
ball breaks during play without being noticed during the rally,
the Referee shall allow a let for the rally in which the ball
broke, if the server appeals prior to the next service or if the
receiver appeals prior to attempting to return that service.
(G13)
14.3.1 If the receiver appeals prior to attempting to return
service and the Referee decides the ball broke during that
service, the Referee shall allow a let for that rally only,
but if uncertain shall allow a let for the previous rally.
14.4 The
provisions of Rule 14.3 do not apply to the final rally of a
game. In that case a player must appeal immediately after the
rally.
14.5 If a
player stops during a rally to appeal that the ball is broken,
only to find subsequently that the ball is not broken, then that
player shall lose the rally.
14.6 The
ball shall remain within the court at all times, unless the
Referee permits its removal.
14.7 When
the Referee has substituted another ball or when the players
resume a match after some delay, the Referee shall allow the
players to warm the ball to playing condition. Play shall then
resume on the direction of the Referee, or by mutual consent of
the players, whichever is earlier. |
