What is a four in the key foul?
A · Advanced · Fouls · 2 of 4Only three defenders may be in their key while the opponents have the ball; the fourth commits a foul. Nobody may enter the 1 m zone around a throw-in until the ball is released. Players may not leave the court without reason, nor cross their own try line to defend. Hard contact before the whistle earns a warning per half, then fouls.
How it works
- Four in the key: fourth defender fouls.
- One metre: stay out of the throw-in zone.
- Leaving the court: only to avoid injury.
- Own try line: no crossing to defend.
- Contact before the whistle: one warning a half.
- Then: fouls.
- Penalty: 30 seconds if defending.
- Attackers: lose possession.
The glossary has the four in the key foul, the one metre foul, the leaving the court foul, the contact before the whistle, the key area and the common foul.
Tricky cases
A defender crosses the try line to cut off an attacker. Foul?
Yes.
A player leaves the court to avoid a crash. Foul?
No.
A hit during a stoppage, first time in the half. Result?
A warning.
Can three defenders sit in the key?
Yes. The fourth is the foul.
Why the rule exists
Limits in the key keep scoring possible. The 1 m zone gives the in-bounder space to pass.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Key | Three defenders | 91 |
| Throw-in | 1 m zone | 97 |
| Stoppages | Warning then foul | 90 |
From the rule book
World Wheelchair Rugby, International Wheelchair Rugby Rules (1 April 2026), rules 90, 91, 93 and 97. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Wheelchair Rugby International Rules, April 2026.