POLO RULES 2020- 2 MIN READ on 'RIGHT OF WAY' & 'LINE OF BALL'

Fouls in A Polo Game

Lack of clarity regarding polo rules can be disastrous for a polo player. This is something that often results in an avoidable and embarrassing foul, which for obvious reasons, is one of the most detested things on a polo ground. A foul not only transfers the possession of the ball to the opponent but it also takes away any positional advantage the team had prior to the occurrence. The effect is rather devastating in case the foul occurs during the decisive moments of the game.

Therefore, it is important or a polo player to ensure that she /he has absolute clarity regarding the rules of the game. Not only on paper but also on how these rules translate on the ground under different circumstances.

Right of Way & Line of Ball

Considering that 'to hit the goddam ball' is the most basic human desire on a polo field, it is important to understand the 'Right to Ball' with all seriousness. In order to do that , it is important to first understand the following

Line of Ball (LOB)
Right of Way (ROW)

'Line of ball' is the extended line on which the ball has traveled last.

'Right of Way' is the right of a player to proceed in a particular direction.

Thumb Rule - Right to Ball

The player most aligned to the off side of LOB (in terms of angle and distance) gets the ROW to proceed on LOB to hit the ball, unless there is a pair coming from opposite direction.

As per the definition of the 'Right to Ball' given above, following conclusions can be drawn

There is no 'Right of Way' to ball on near side.
Player who establishes himself/ herself quickest on LOB within relevant distance gets the RTB.
A pair riding each other off on the LOB has priority over every body else