How does the centre pass work in netball?
B · Beginner · The game · 3 of 8Checked 15 October 2026
Every quarter, and every restart after a goal, begins with a centre pass, taken by the two Centres in turn. The Centre keeps a foot in the centre circle and must release within three seconds, to a player who catches it in the centre third. Other players may not cross into that third before the whistle.
How it works
- When: each quarter and after each goal.
- Who: Centres, alternately.
- Foot: at least one in the circle.
- Release: three seconds.
- Catch: in the centre third.
- Untouched into a goal third: free pass.
- Breaking: free pass.
- Others: in their goal thirds until the whistle.
The glossary has the centre pass, the untouched centre pass, the breaking, the Centre, the held ball and the thirds.
Tricky cases
Does the team that scored take the next centre pass?
Not necessarily. They alternate.
The pass goes out over the side line untouched. Result?
A throw-in to the other team.
A Wing Attack crosses early. Result?
Breaking; a free pass.
Who keeps track of whose turn it is?
The scorers.
Why the rule exists
Alternate centre passes stop a team that concedes always getting the ball back.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Order | Alternate | L 8.1 |
| Early cross | Breaking | L 8.11 |
| Untouched | Free pass | L 8.14 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rule 8. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.