Linda, my question is:
Form of play: four-ball match play
• player and partner's ball (unmarked) on the green...
• player putts and hits partner's ball at rest on the green (not equipment for it has not been lifted, it is partner's ball in play)
• when you hit opponent's ball on the green, no penalty and opponent's ball is replaced and the other one is played as it lies...
Would player's partner be penalized under Rule18-2a for having his ball in play and at rest on the green moved after a stroke by his partner?
Curious Lulu in Puerto Rico
Dear Lulu,
In match play, there is no penalty to anyone for putting a ball from on the green that strikes another ball on the green. That holds true whether the ball that is struck belongs to your opponent or your partner. The ball that was in motion is played as it lies (Rule 19-5a); the ball that was moved must be replaced (Rule 18-5).
There may be some strategy involved in match play in not marking and lifting your ball on the green. If your ball lies on the far side of the hole, for example, and could serve as a backstop for your partner, it might be in your team’s best interest to leave the ball where it is. However, if your opponents notice that your ball might assist your partner, they may request that you lift the ball (Rule 22-1). If they make such a request, you must comply.
Linda
Copyright © 2008 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
