Can you kick or roll the ball in netball?
B · Beginner · Playing the ball · 6 of 8Checked 15 October 2026
A pass may be thrown, batted, bounced or dropped, but not kicked, punched or rolled to a player, nor made sitting or lying down. A player holding the ball must release it within three seconds and may not touch it again until another player or the post has. The sanction is a free pass.
How it works
- Pass: throw, bat, bounce or drop.
- Hold: three seconds.
- Kick or punch: not allowed.
- Roll to a player: not allowed.
- Sitting or lying: no passing.
- Repossession: not before another touch.
- Rebound off the post: may be caught.
- Sanction: free pass.
The glossary has the pass, the possession, the repossession, the held ball, the rebound and the interception.
Tricky cases
A shot hits the post and rebounds to the shooter. Can they catch it?
Yes.
Can a player tip the ball and then catch it?
Yes, once, to gain possession.
A player sits on the court and passes. Allowed?
No.
How long can a player hold the ball?
Three seconds.
Why the rule exists
Three seconds keeps the ball moving, and banning repossession stops a player passing to themself.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Hold | Three seconds | L 11.4 |
| Kick | Not allowed | L 11.5 |
| Repossession | Not allowed | L 11.6 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rule 11 and the definitions. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.