What happens when the ball goes out in netball?
I · Intermediate · Playing the ball · 3 of 5Checked 15 October 2026
The ball is out when it touches the ground, or anything touching the ground, outside the court. A ball on a line or off the post is in. The team that did not touch it last throws in from where it went out, a foot within 15 cm of the line, releasing within three seconds.
How it works
- Out: touches the ground outside.
- Line: in.
- Off the post: in.
- Catch in the air, land out: out.
- Throw-in: team that did not touch it last.
- Position: foot within 15 cm of the line.
- Release: three seconds.
- From the goal line: into the goal third.
The glossary has the out of court, the throw-in, the court surround, the court, the sanction and action and the held ball.
Tricky cases
A player catches the ball in the air and lands outside. Result?
Out of court.
Can a player run into the surround to reposition?
Yes, without the ball.
Can the thrower step on court before releasing?
No.
A shot misses and goes over the goal line. Who throws in?
The team that did not touch it last.
Why the rule exists
The line belongs to the court, so a ball on it stays in play.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Line | In | L 15.4 |
| Post | In | L 15.4 |
| Throw-in | 15 cm | L 6.11 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rules 6.11 to 6.14 and 15. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.