Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Substitute Ball is another conforming ball put into play instead of the original. The Rules allow this in specified procedures, such as taking relief or replaying a stroke, but generally require the original ball when replacing it on its spot.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a Substitute Ball can keep play moving when a Rule permits relief or replay, including stroke-and-distance relief. The player should state or follow the correct procedure, because an unauthorised substitution can bring the general penalty, which is loss of hole in match play. Once substituted, the original ball is no longer in play.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Substitute Ball |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 6.3b; Rule 4.2c; Rule 18.1-18.3 |
| Related concepts | In Play, Wrong Ball, Provisional Ball, Stroke and Distance |
Worked example
Alex's tee shot is out of bounds, so he takes stroke-and-distance relief, adds one penalty stroke, and plays a Substitute Ball from the teeing area as his third stroke; Ben cannot require Alex to use the original ball.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 6.3b; Rule 4.2c; Rule 18.1-18.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
When may I use a Substitute Ball?
You may use one when a Rule permits it, including when taking relief by dropping or placing, replaying from the previous spot, or taking stroke-and-distance relief. You may also substitute if your ball is clearly cut or cracked and the damage happened during the hole.
Can I replace my ball with another ball on the same spot?
Usually no. When a Rule requires you to replace a ball on its spot, Rule 6.3b says you must use the original ball, subject to limited exceptions such as a ball that is clearly cut or cracked under Rule 4.2c.
What happens if I substitute a ball when the Rules do not allow it?
The substituted ball becomes the ball in play, and the original is no longer in play. If you make a stroke with an incorrectly substituted ball, the general penalty applies; in match play that normally means loss of hole.
Is a Substitute Ball the same as a Provisional Ball?
Not exactly. A Provisional Ball is a specific second ball played under Rule 18.3 before searching for a ball that may be lost or out of bounds. A Substitute Ball is the broader concept of another ball becoming the ball in play under a permitted Rule.
Does a Substitute Ball carry a penalty?
Not automatically. The penalty depends on the procedure. For example, stroke-and-distance relief includes one penalty stroke, while an allowed free-relief substitution does not. An unauthorised substitution can incur the general penalty.
Can I use any ball as a Substitute Ball?
The ball must conform to the Equipment Rules. In a competition with a one-ball Local Rule, the Committee may also require the same brand and model as the ball used from the teeing area.