Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Playing Two Balls is a stroke-play procedure for a player who is uncertain how to proceed under the Rules. Before making another stroke, the player plays two balls using different procedures, announces which ball should count, and reports the facts to the Committee before returning the scorecard.
How it matters in match play
Playing Two Balls is not the match-play solution to a Rules question. In match play, the player should protect their rights by making a timely Request for Ruling under Rule 20.1b(2), before the relevant next stroke or before the result becomes final. Playing out the hole with two balls is not allowed in match play and can lead to a ruling under Clarification 20.1b(4)/1.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Playing Two Balls |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 20.1c(3) (stroke play); Rule 20.1b(2) and Clarification 20.1b(4)/1 (match play) |
| Related concepts | Stroke Play, Match Play, Request for Ruling, Ruling, Committee |
Worked example
Alex is playing Stroke Play and is unsure whether relief from a cart path was taken correctly; before another stroke, Alex announces that two balls will be played, chooses the relief ball to count, holes out with both, and reports the facts to the Committee before returning the scorecard.
Rule reference: Rule 20.1c(3) (stroke play); Rule 20.1b(2) and Clarification 20.1b(4)/1 (match play)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Can I play two balls in match play?
No. Playing two balls under Rule 20.1c(3) is limited to stroke play. In match play, make a timely Request for Ruling under Rule 20.1b(2), rather than trying to protect yourself by completing the hole with two balls.
When must I decide to play two balls?
You must decide after the uncertain situation arises and before making another stroke. You should also announce which ball you want to count before making a stroke. If you do not choose, the first ball played is treated as the chosen ball by default.
What happens after I play two balls?
Complete the hole with both balls, then report the facts to the Committee before returning your scorecard, even if both balls produce the same score. The Committee decides which score counts under the Rules; failing to report the facts results in disqualification.