Get a Ruling • Re: Picking up the wrong ball and failing to mark
MikeMikeH wrote:Seriously guys, given the Micky Mouse format being played would you really penalise player C in this situation? This is not an elite level tournament even if they think it might be........
We haven't been asked what SHOULD apply, just what do the rules say in this situation. We have observed what the rules outcome is in stroke play and match play - given the lack of clarity in the original message. Our requester has since advised they were actually playing match play.
So it really couldn't be simpler. Match play, C has picked up an opponent's ball in play without authority to do so. We have been asked how the rules apply to this situation - ie what is the ruling. Not our job to second guess anything, just to advise the rules implication of the facts. One shot penalty under R18-3b. Of course, the opponents can always ignore the breach, unless a ruling request is made.
You also raised an interesting related question, could this action be considered 'accidental' for the purpose of the accidental movement on PG local rule. This is definitely worth asking, not least because this is part of the 2019 rules, so it is useful to reflect on where the dividing line lies. And I (and Chippings at least) think it is very clear that an intentional but mistaken lifting of an opponent's ball on the putting green cannot be considered 'accidental'. I also note that all relief examples provided by RBs are genuine 'accidental' movements of the ball or ball marker. In the jargon of the 2019 rules: this situation will not qualify under R13.1d(1) and will be penalised under R9.5b. All IMO, of course.
Statistics: Posted by Thom — Today, 8:36 am