What are the basic rules of netball?
B · Beginner · The game · 1 of 8Netball is played seven a side on a court split into thirds, each player limited to set areas. A player holding the ball may not run with it and must pass or shoot within three seconds. Only the Goal Shooter and Goal Attack may score, from inside the goal circle. A match is four 15-minute quarters.
How it works
- Team: seven on court.
- Court: three thirds.
- Positions: set areas each.
- With the ball: no running.
- Hold: three seconds.
- Shooters: Goal Shooter and Goal Attack.
- Goals: from the goal circle only.
- Match: four quarters of 15 minutes.
The glossary has the team, the court, the thirds, the goal ring, the goal circle and the quarter.
Tricky cases
Is there a backboard?
No. The ring hangs from a padded post.
Can a team play with six?
Yes. Five is the minimum.
Is there dribbling?
No. A player may bounce the ball once only to catch it themself.
How high is the ring?
3.05 m.
Why the rule exists
Set areas and no running force the ball to be passed, so every player takes part in moving it.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Court | 30.5 by 15.25 m | L 1.2 |
| Ring | 3.05 m | L 1.13 |
| Minimum | Five players | L 3.2 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rules 1 to 3 and 9. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.