Facilities
1.1 Field of Play
1.2 Field Dimensions
1.3 Safety Zone
1.4 Goal Posts and Goal Line
1.5 Side Boards
1.6 Field Markings
1.7 Ball
1.8 Access during Play

Officials
1.9 Authority
1.10 Selection and Appointment of Officials
1.11 Umpires
1.12 Referee
1.13 Goal Judges
1.14 Timekeeper
1.15 Scorer
1.16 One Umpire
1.17 Guidelines for Officials

Player and Team Requirements
1.18 Team
1.19 Eligibility of Players
1.20 Visiting Foreign Players
1.21 Right-handed Play
1.22 Player Handicap
1.23 One Team
1.24 Banned Substances
1.25 Sample Collection and Tests
1.26 Leaving the Field
1.27 Appealing
1.28 Dispute and Abuse
1.29 Team Withdrawal
1.30 Late Reporting or No-Show by Teams
1.31 Team Not Trying
1.32 Protests and Objections

Horse and Tack Requirements
1.33 Horses
1.34 Registration and Eligibility
1.35 Restriction on Horses
1.36 Welfare of Horses
1.37 Distress and Undesirable Conditions
1.38 Banned Substances
1.39 Inspection and Tests
1.40 Tack and Equipment
1.41 Restrictions on Tack
1.42 Limit on Time Played and Chukkers
1.43 Umpire Ponies

Equipment for Players and Field Officials
1.44 Turn Out
1.45 Polo Mallets
1.46 Protective Headgear
1.47 Breeches and Boots
1.48 Knee Guards
1.49 Players Shirts
1.50 Confusing Colours
1.51 Umpires Kit
1.52 Goal Judges Kit
1.53 Spurs
1.54 Whips

Handicap Requirements
1.55 Team Handicap Eligibility
1.56 Player Handicap Limits
1.57 Goals on Handicap
1.58 Disputes on Handicap

Duration, Stoppages and Restart of Play
1.59 Duration of Matches
1.60 Duration of Chukkers and Intervals
1.61 Continuous Play
1.62 Unfinished Game
1.63 End of Chukker
1.64 End of last Chukker
1.65 Extra Chukkers and Widened Goals
1.66 Running and Stopping the Clock
1.67 Match not Completed
1.68 Foul on the Bell

How a Game is Won
1.69 Winning
1.70 Dispute about Goals on Handicap

Substitution
1.71 Substitution
1.72 Types of Substitutes
1.73 Qualification and Handicap
1.74 Timing of Substitution
1.75 Restrictions on Substitutions
1.76 Three Player Teams
1.77 Captain's Choice
1.78 Horses for the Substitute
1.79 International Matches
1.80 Violation of Substitution Rules

Tournament Formats
1.81 Tournament Formats and Schedules

Tournament Committee
1.82 Tournament Committee
1.83 Responsibilities
1.84 Authority
1.85 Appeals

FACILITIES

1.1 Field of Play. The field of play is the prepared area bounded by the side lines or boards and the back line. The field should have a grass surface, cut smooth and short enough for the ball to roll straight and easily.

1.2 Field Dimensions. The dimensions of the field of play shall be:

1. Length. Maximum 300 yards (275 metres). Minimum 250 yards (230 metres).
2. Width. Maximum 200 yards (180 metres) if unboarded, and 160 yards (146 metres) if boarded. Minimum 175 yards (160 metres) if unboarded, and 145 yards (130 metres) if boarded.

1.3 Safety Zone. The Safety Zone is the prepared area that extends beyond each end and along each side of the field of play. The safety zone is recommended to extend 10 yards beyond the side lines/boards and at least 30 yards beyond the back line. The safety zone should be prepared to the same standard as the field of play. Any incident which occurs in the safety zone shall be treated as though it occurred on the field of play itself.

1.4 Goal Posts and Goal Line. The goal posts shall be 8 yards (7.3 metres) apart measured between the inside edges, at least 10 feet high (3 metres) and cylindrical in shape. The goal posts shall be centred at each end of the polo ground. The goal posts shall be sufficiently light and fragile enough to give way if collided with. The Goal Line is the part of the back line between the two goal posts at either end of the field of play.

1.5 Side Boards. The side boards, if used, shall not exceed 11-inches in height and shall be at least 1- inch thick. They may be curved at the end of the field of play. The term side-line shall interchangeably imply side boards where such side boards are in place.

1.6 Field Markings. The field should clearly be marked at all boundaries. There shall be a straight line running down the centre from side-line to side-line (or from side-board to side-board if the field is boarded), dividing the field into two halves. Along this centre line, “T” shall be marked with two parallel lines 2 yards apart on both lateral sides of the field. Penalty spots shall be marked at 30 yards, 40 yards and 60 yards from the goal line. For Penalty 6, 40 yards lateral limit from the centre shall be marked on the field. Refer to Appendix A - Field Layout and Markings for details.

1.7 Ball. The size of the ball shall be 3 to 3.5 inches (76 to 90 millimetres) in diameter. The weight of the ball may vary between 120 to 135 grams for plastic balls; and between 120 to 150 grams for bamboo/wooden balls.

1.8 Access during Play. During play, access to the field of play and safety zone is restricted to the players and match officials. No person other than the players and umpires shall enter the field of play. A player shall go to the side-line for any assistance. In case of any injury to a player or horse, only authorised officials, medical/veterinary personnel and horse handlers may enter the field.

OFFICIALS

1.9 Authority. Matches will normally be administered by two mounted Umpires and a Referee whose authority shall be absolute during and immediately before and after the game on matters regarding the conduct of play. They shall be assisted by Goal Judges, Timekeeper and Scorer.

1.10 Selection and Appointment of Officials. The Tournament Committee shall have the sole authority to select and appoint match officials, who must always conduct themselves and discharge their duties in a neutral manner. No match shall have both umpires being minus handicap players. A team is not permitted to object against the appointment of any match official. The conduct of all match officials should be of the highest order. No match official shall use any foul language or gesture at any time against any player, official, spectator or any other person on the field.

1.11 Umpires. There will normally be two mounted umpires in a match who have the duty to conduct and control the game according to the rules. The authority of the umpires begins when they enter the field on commencement of a match and ends when they exit the field on conclusion of the match. No player can dispute an infraction called by an umpire. On any incident or situation where the Umpires do not agree, they shall consult the Referee, upon which the decision of the Referee shall be final. The umpires have the power to impose a fine of up to Rs 5000 (payable to the IPA) on any player or team for delaying the scheduled start of a match, misconduct on the field, disrespectful attitude towards the match officials or other players, or for a violation of the rules during a game. The umpires are empowered to recommend to the Tournament Committee further disciplinary action including suspension of a player or team whose conduct is not in the best interest of the sport. In the case of imposition of such fine or further disciplinary action, the Umpires shall make their recommendation in writing to the Tournament Committee, whose decision on the matter shall be final.

1.12 Referee. The Referee should be seated in an elevated and isolated position close to the centre line of the field. Normally, the referee adjudicates only when the umpires disagree on an infraction and choose to consult the referee. When the umpires disagree on any issue and consult the referee, the decision of the referee shall be final. If the referee is unable to make an informed judgement on the play, then he should rule “No Foul”. In exceptional cases, if the referee observes that the umpires are overlooking a mandatory rule, he may call the umpires and advise them on the same. The Tournament Committee may permit a match to be played without a referee. In such cases, the umpires must decide upon each infraction themselves. In the absence of a referee, a disagreement between the two umpires on any infraction should be judged as a “no-foul” and play must restart with a throw-in.

1.13 Goal Judges. In each game, at least one Goal Judge shall be appointed for each goal. The goal judges shall assist the umpires in respect of goals or other incidents that occur near their respective goals. However, the umpires shall make the final decision.

1.14 Timekeeper. A Timekeeper shall be appointed in each game. The timekeeper is responsible for keeping the time played in each chukker, for any stoppages during play and for the intervals between chukkers.

1.15 Scorer. A Scorer shall be appointed in each game. The scorer is responsible for recording the goals scored. The scorer, if possible, shall also record the name of player who scored the goal, the time at which the goal was scored and the direction of play. At all times, the scorers’ record of goals shall count.

1.16 One Umpire. The Tournament Committee may stipulate in the tournament conditions that only one umpire shall administer each game of a tournament. To prevent delay in starting a match where a single umpire was not originally stipulated in the tournament conditions, the Tournament Committee may permit such a match to be administered by a single umpire, provided captains of both teams consent to playing with only one umpire.

1.17 Guidelines for Officials. The guidelines given in Appendix B - Guidelines for Match Officials shall be read in conjunction with these rules.

PLAYER AND TEAM REQUIREMENTS

1.18 Team. Each polo team shall consist of four players. Each team shall appoint a team captain before the start of the game. Team captains may wear an armband on the left arm, for easy identification.

1.19 Eligibility of Players. Only playing members of the IPA (including temporary playing members) and foreign players as members of visiting national teams may play in any tournament conducted under the aegis of the IPA. Players with dues outstanding to the IPA shall not be permitted to play.

1.20 Visiting Foreign Players. Foreign players (other than those visiting as national teams) must register with the IPA as temporary playing members to be eligible to play in any tournament conducted under the aegis of the IPA. Note: The term foreign player means a player who is not a permanent resident of India and includes non-resident Indian nationals.

1.21 Right-Handed Play. All players shall play with the polo stick held in the right hand only.

1.22 Player Handicap. A player shall be rated at a handicap ranging from the lowest -2 to the highest +10. Players will have to play off the handicap as rated by the IPA. The term polo season in context of this rule shall refer to the IPA’s annual polo season, that runs from 1st August of each year to 31st July of the subsequent year, unless specified otherwise by the IPA.

1. A player handicapped by the IPA but not having played in India for an entire season, will have to play off the highest handicap he last played in India or elsewhere.
2. A visiting foreign player handicapped by the IPA shall have to play off his IPA handicap. If the player’s handicap has been raised subsequently by another polo association, the player shall have to play off his higher handicap.
3. A visiting foreign player not handicapped by the IPA shall have to play off the highest handicap he last played in the preceding 12 months in any location, till he is handicapped by the IPA.
4. If the handicap of a visiting foreign player (not holding a valid Indian handicap) has been revised by any polo association with effect from a future date, the players revised handicap shall come into effect in India immediately and not from a future date.
5. Any player holding multiple handicap ratings from different polo associations shall play off his highest handicap rating.
6. NRIs and OCI/PIO (holding valid OCI/PIO card or documentation) shall not be considered as visiting foreign players.

1.23 One Team. A player shall play for only one team in any tournament, except if authorised to play as a substitute.

1.24 Banned Substances. No individual is permitted to participate as a player or official in any match, practice game or chukkers under the influence of narcotics, banned substances, alcohol or any other stimulant or substance which may hamper normal human functioning.

1.25 Sample Collection and Tests. Any player participating in any game under these rules consents, as a precondition of participation, to provide the necessary samples and undergo blood, urine or other tests at short notice as deemed necessary and authorised by the Tournament Committee or the IPA.

1.26 Leaving the Field. A player may not leave the field during a chukker without the permission of the umpires, except to change a pony, tack, polo stick or for a legitimate run off. A player shall be awarded a Red Card if he leaves a game before the final bell without obtaining permission of the umpires.

1.27 Appealing. A player may not appeal in any manner for a foul. Helicoptering or any appeal which is dangerous or abusive shall be penalised without warning.

1.28 Dispute and Abuse. A player may not question, ask for clarification or dispute a decision by the umpires or referee at any time by words, action or gesture. The team captain may seek clarification from the umpires. A player shall at no time use any abusive language or gesture towards the officials, players, spectators or any other person at the field. After a match concludes, no player shall approach any match official till at least 45 minutes have elapsed after the end of the game.

1.29 Team Withdrawal. A team that has entered a tournament may not withdraw once the schedule has been published without the permission of the Tournament Committee, which should only be given in exceptional circumstances. If a team forfeits or withdraws from a tournament, all results of the matches played by the team or due to be played by such team shall stand forfeited by the team. In forfeited league matches, net goal difference in favour of such team shall stand nullified. A team that withdraws immediately before or during a match without such permission will invoke a charge of misconduct and be liable to disciplinary action as considered appropriate by the Tournament Committee.

1.30 Late Reporting or No-Show by Teams. In all scheduled tournaments, if a team fails to show-up within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time of a match, the team shall be deemed to have lost the match and the opposing team shall be awarded a win by walk-over. If neither team shows up within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time of a match, then both teams shall be eliminated from the tournament. The Tournament Committee or the umpires may waive the penalty for a team, or both teams, if the cause of delay in arrival is justified.

1.31 Team Not Trying. If in the opinion of the umpires, referee or the Tournament Committee, a team is believed to be not trying to play competitively, then the team should be warned by the umpires. If the team fails to comply with this instruction, the umpires shall report the same to the Tournament Committee. The team or individual players shall be liable to disciplinary action including disqualification from the tournament as considered appropriate by the Tournament Committee. A Tournament Committee has the authority to disqualify any team or player from a tournament at any time.

1.32 Protests and Objections. Protests or objections against the decisions of, or the manner in which the officials conduct a game, or a related event may be made by any aggrieved player, team captain or patron. Such objections must be made in writing to the Tournament Committee within six hours of conclusion of the game or event in question, along with the protest fee as applicable. The decision of the Tournament Committee in respect of any protest or objection so lodged shall be final.

HORSE AND TACK REQUIREMENTS

1.33 Horses. The game can be played on horses of any height. Traditionally, horses that play polo are called ponies. The terms ‘horse’ and ‘pony’ have been used interchangeably in these rules.

1.34 Registration and Eligibility. Only horses registered with the IPA can be played in any match, practice game or chukkers being conducted under the aegis of the IPA. All ponies must have valid vaccination certificates. Horse owners with dues outstanding to the IPA shall not be permitted to play their horses.

1.35 Restriction on Horses. No pony shall be played for more than one team in tournaments of handicap 10 goals and over. For violation of this rule, the team shall forfeit the match irrespective of the teams’ knowledge or intent. Unlike many other penalties which the umpires may decide not to enforce, the penalty for violation of this rule must be enforced, provided that the umpires, or the referee or the Tournament Committee become aware of such violation within 24 hours of the violation having taken place. The IPA alone may waive this penalty.

1.36 Welfare of Horses. The ultimate responsibility for care and welfare of a horse rests at all times with the owner, who must take all reasonable steps to ensure welfare of their horses. During play, the primary responsibility for welfare of a pony on the field lies with the player. However, the umpires also have a responsibility towards the welfare of ponies.

1. During a game, a player may inform the umpires that his pony is injured or distressed, or the umpires may make their own assessment to this effect. In both cases, the umpires shall stop play immediately and examine the pony.
2. If the pony shows any signs of injury or distress, the pony shall be led off the field or taken off in a horse ambulance. Play shall restart with a throw-in from where the ball was, when the player with the injured pony has returned on another pony. Umpires may allow all players to change horses in the intervening time.
3. However, if the pony is not visibly injured or is fatigued, the umpires shall instruct the player to lead the pony off the field by the shortest route and change the pony. No other player shall be permitted to change horses. Play shall restart with a throw-in, as soon as the distressed pony leaves the field.
4. If a pony throws or skews a shoe, the player may be allowed to change pony at the next break in play. Play shall be restarted when the player returns.

1.37 Distress and Undesirable Conditions. Horses showing any of the following signs of distress or undesirable conditions shall not be permitted to play.

1. Blindness. A horse blind in one eye shall not be permitted to play.
2. Lameness. A horse that is lame shall be removed from the game.
3. Infectious and Contagious Diseases. A horse with any infectious or contagious diseases shall not be permitted to play.
4. Desensitized Horses. Horses that have been chemically or surgically desensitized/de-nerved shall not be permitted to play. If desensitized temporarily, then the horse must not be played until full sensation has returned.
5. Tracheotomy. Horses with any form of open tracheotomy (tubing) shall not be permitted to play.
6. Vices and Lack of Control. Horses showing vices or lack of proper control that may be dangerous, to other players or horses, shall not be permitted to play.
7. Bleeding. Any horse showing blood, whether from the mouth, flanks or any other part, shall be removed from the game.
8. Horse has a Fall. If a horse falls (i.e. its shoulder touches the ground), the umpires must stop play immediately. If the player wishes to remount, the horse shall be trotted and checked for soundness. The player shall remount only if the horse is considered free of any distress or injury. A horse showing any sign of distress or injury shall be removed from the field and be walked out across the nearest side-line or be evacuated in a horse ambulance.

1.38 Banned Substances. No horse shall be permitted to play or be used as an umpire’s mount in any match, practice game or chukkers under the influence of banned substances or any other stimulant or substance which may hamper normal equine functioning.

1.39 Inspection and Tests. Any horse owner allowing the participation of his horse in any game under these rules consents, as a precondition of participation, to have his horses inspected on the polo ground or in the stables and to undergo blood, urine or other tests at short notice as deemed necessary and authorised by the Tournament Committee or the IPA.

1.40 Tack and Equipment. Ponies on the field are expected to be well turned out. All ponies, including mounts of umpires, must be protected by bandages or boots on all four legs. Any type of bridle or saddle may be used provided the tack is not dangerous and the mount is under proper control. Double reins are advised for safety. Tails may be put up and taped to prevent interference with polo sticks.

1.41 Restrictions on Tack. The safety and welfare of all horses is paramount. The following tack and usage shall not be permitted:

1. Blinders. Side blinders or blinkers or any form of noseband or other equipment which obstructs the vision of the pony are not permitted.
2. Wires. A noseband, headpiece or head-collar which incorporates wire or any sharp material are not permitted.
3. Sharp Projections. Any equipment with sharp projections which might cause injury to the pony or other pony or player are not permitted.
4. Bit-less Bridles. A hackamore or bit-less bridle may be used only in practice chukkers, at the discretion of the host club.
5. Bit diameter. Any bit, whether single or double, with the mouthpiece of less than 0.25 inch (6.50 mm) in diameter at its narrowest point are not permitted.
6. Curb Bit. A curb bit with a cheek length of more than 6 inches (15.2 cm) is not permitted.
7. Tongue Ties. Tongue ties if used, must be removed as soon as the pony leaves the field.
8. Horseshoes. Frost nails, toe grabs, studs, screws, spikes or any protruding sharp nails or edges on the horseshoes are not permitted. Horseshoes with outside rims are not permitted. Rims, where used, must be on the inside of the horseshoe only. A pony may be played without all four shoes or without hind shoes. However, if this leads to the pony not being in proper control, the umpires shall order such pony to be taken off the field.
9. Calks. Calks are permitted so they can be replaced without having to re-shoe the pony. Calks, whether temporary or permanent, are allowed only if they are placed on the inside of the heel of the hind shoes. The calks must not exceed 2 cubic centimetres. Temporary calks should be as close as possible to the regular permanent calk.
10. Old horses. Owners of old horses aged 16 years or over, are advised to have their horses undergo heart and eye tests at the start of each playing season.

1.42 Limit on Time Played and Chukkers. A pony shall not be played for two consecutive chukkers, and for more than two non-consecutive chukkers in any game. A pony must not be played in more than three chukkers or equivalent time in any one day, or at more than two locations. A pony which has played more than half a chukker may not be played again for at least 10 minutes. Should a match go into extra time, then a pony that has already played two chukkers may be played for the extra time chukker provided that the pony has had a break of at least 10 minutes.

1.43 Umpire Ponies. A pony that has played in a match at 8-goals level or below may be used as an umpire pony or vice versa, only after the pony has had a break of at least 10 minutes. Above 8-goals level, any pony that has played in a match shall not be subsequently used as an umpire pony or vice versa.

EQUIPMENT - PLAYERS AND FIELD OFFICIALS

1.44 Turn Out. Players and officials are expected to be well turned out, so that the reputation of the sport is enhanced. This includes turn out during presentations and prize giving ceremonies.

1.45 Polo Mallets. The length and weight of Polo Mallets, also called Polo Sticks, may vary as per the requirements of each player. The shafts of polo mallets shall be made of cane or composite/ graphite material. Mallet heads shall be made of wood or bamboo. No other material is permitted for construction of mallet heads and shafts, except for adhesives and tape for joints and splices. No metallic parts or sharp edges are permitted anywhere on a polo mallet. Nails used for construction of the hand grip must be completely covered. Polo mallets constructed using any other material must specifically be approved by the IPA prior to use in any game.

1.46 Protective Headgear. Every mounted person on the polo ground, including grooms and horse handlers, must wear protective headgear with chin- strap or harness properly fastened. Players shall wear Polo helmets with 3-point harness, properly fastened with a chin-strap. Umpires shall wear helmets with fastened chin-straps.

1.47 Breeches and Boots. All players and umpires shall wear knee-length boots and white breeches or jeans. No buckles or buttons are permitted to be worn on the boots in such manner that they may cause injury to another player, or pony, or damage the equipment of another player.

1.48 Knee Guards. Players shall wear protective knee- guards during matches. No buckles or buttons are permitted to be worn on the knee-guards in such manner that they may cause injury to another player or pony, or damage the equipment of another player.

1.49 Players Shirts. Players’ shirts must not be of black and white vertical stripes. Team shirts must be numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4. The numbers should be displayed in contrasting colours on the back of each shirt and the numerals should be at least 9 inches tall. The numbers on team shirts must be from 1 to 4 and not be duplicated.

1.50 Confusing Colours. If in the opinion of the umpires or Tournament Committee, the shirt colours of two competing teams are so alike that they may lead to confusion, the team lower in the draw of the tournament shall have to play in another colour. In case one of the teams is the home team and the other is a visiting team, the home team shall change its shirts to a different colour.

1.51 Umpires Kit. Umpires shall wear black and white vertical-striped shirts, or conspicuous coloured shirts/jackets as approved by the IPA. Umpires shall carry a sharply audible whistle, a ball bag/pouch-belt and a pick-up stick. Umpires shall also carry yellow and red cards as prescribed.

1.52 Goal Judges Kit. Goal judges shall wear a short white coat or white shirt and a properly fastened helmet. Goal judges shall carry a red flag to waive when signalling goals.

1.53 Spurs. Any spur likely to wound a horse is not allowed. Pointed or sharp spurs are not allowed. Spurs, including any rowel, must be blunt with the shank pointing downwards and to the rear. The shank shall not exceed 1.25 inches (3 cm) in length. In any case, spurs are not to be used excessively or unnecessarily.

1.54 Whips. Metallic, wooden or hard material whips and broken whips are not permitted. Whips must not be more than 48 inches long including any tag. Whips are not to be used excessively or unnecessarily. At no time shall a whip be raised over the players’ shoulder or used thrice in succession. Umpires must ensure that, save for exceptional circumstances, whips are not used to strike ponies on the field of play except when the ball is in play. Umpires should start the game with at least Penalty No. 5-B if a player strikes a pony on the field of play after the umpires have ridden on to the field of play and before the ball is in play.

HANDICAP REQUIREMENTS

1.55 Team Handicap Eligibility. In all tournaments played on handicap, the lowest permissible limit for a team to participate shall be 6 goals below the upper limit of that tournament. The Tournament Committee will determine whether a tournament is to be played based on handicap.

1.56 Player Handicap Limits. A player rated at a minus handicap, i.e. at handicap -2, may play in tournament of upto 8-goals or handicap -1, may play in tournaments of upto 10-goals. A player rated at handicap 0 or higher may play in tournaments of any level. All new players rated at -2 shall need to be approved and certified by their club secretary or official designated by the IPA, prior to participation in their first tournament. The Tournament Committee may apply additional conditions on eligibility of players as per the tournament level.

1.57 Goals on Handicap. In all matches played under handicap conditions, the difference between the total handicap of the two teams shall be multiplied by the number of chukkers to be played in that match (excluding extra time chukkers) and then be divided by 6 (the number of chukkers on which handicaps are based). This shall give the number of goals to be awarded at start of play to the team with lower handicap. All fractions shall be counted as half a goal.

1.58 Disputes on Handicap. Any disputes pertaining to handicaps can be raised only before the start of a match. No claims shall be admitted thereafter, except for observations referred by the umpires to the referee for resolution after the match.

DURATION, STOPPAGES AND RESTART OF PLAY

1.59 Duration of Matches. The maximum duration of a match shall be six chukkers, not including extra time chukkers. The duration of matches in a tournament may be varied by the Tournament Committee according to the level of Polo. The duration of matches as per the level of tournaments shall be as follows:

1. Tournaments up to 12-goals shall be played over four chukkers.
2. Tournaments of 14-goals and above shall be played over six chukkers.

1.60 Duration of Chukkers and Intervals. Each chukker of the game shall comprise seven minutes of playing time. The interval between chukkers shall be three minutes. The interval at half time in a match shall be five minutes. In a five chukker match, the half time interval shall be at the end of third chukker. An interval of five minutes shall be allowed before the start of first extra time chukker.

1.61 Continuous Play. Except for intervals between chukkers, the game shall be continuous. The Tournament Committee may allow additional breaks in matches upon consideration of local conditions.

1.62 Unfinished Game. Once a match has started, it shall be played to a finish, except when stopped by the umpires or the Tournament Committee for some unavoidable cause that prevents a finish the same day, such as darkness or inclement weather. The match shall be rescheduled at the first favourable opportunity to be decided by the Tournament Committee. The match shall resume at the same point where it was stopped, that is, at the same score, same position of the ball and same time left for completion of the chukker.

1.63 End of Chukker. At the end of each chukker, a bell shall be sounded to signal the end of seven minutes playing time. If the ball is in play when the bell is sounded, the game shall continue (except in the last chukker) up to a maximum of 30 seconds, unless before completion of 30 seconds the ball goes out of play, or a goal is scored, or the ball is whistled dead. After the 30 seconds, if the ball is still in play, the bell shall be sounded again and play will stop instantly with the umpires blowing the whistle to conclude the chukker. In chukkers other than the last chukker of a match, if there is an infraction called after the first bell was rung, the umpires’ whistle shall end the chukker. Execution of a penalty or a throw- in shall be carried out in the next chukker. A suitable loud sound signalling device/horn/hooter may be used instead of a bell.

1.64 End of last Chukker. The last chukker of a match shall end with the first bell on conclusion of seven minutes playing time, except if the score is tied in a knock-out match.

1. If the score is tied in the last chukker of a knock- out match and the ball is in play at the first bell marking seven minutes, then play shall continue up to a maximum of 30 seconds, unless before completion of 30 seconds the ball goes out of play, or a goal is scored, or the ball is whistled dead.
2. After the 30 seconds, if the ball is still in play, the bell shall be sounded again, and play will stop instantly with the umpires blowing the whistle to conclude the chukker.
3. If an infraction is called in the last 5 seconds of the last chukker, the penalty shall be taken immediately and the clock will continue to run for a minimum of 5 seconds or the balance time, whichever is more. If ‘no foul’ is ruled on such infraction, then play shall restart with a throw-in and play shall continue only for the remaining time.

1.65 Extra Chukkers and Widened Goals. If the score is tied at the end of the last chukker in a knock- out match and a result is required, then the match shall continue with an extra chukker.

1. There shall be an interval of 5 minutes before the start of the first extra chukker.
2. During the first extra chukker or any subsequent extra chukker, the match will be won by the team that scores the first goal (‘golden goal’) and the match will conclude upon scoring of the golden goal.
3. If no goal is scored during the first extra chukker and the match goes into a second extra chukker, the goals shall be widened to 16 yards (14.6 metres) apart. The match shall restart with the teams having changed ends and the ball being thrown-in from the centre of the field. Similar procedure shall be followed to start play for any additional extra chukkers.
4. In order to save time and prevent extra fatigue for horses, the team captains may agree to widen the goals to 16 yards from the first extra chukker itself, subject to approval by the Tournament Committee. If the goals are widened to 16 yards, the chukker will be started with a throw-in from the centre, the teams having changed ends.

1.66 Running and Stopping the Clock. The clock shall be stopped or started as follows:

1. Clock Stopped. The clock shall always be stopped at the sound of the umpires’ whistle. The clock shall be restarted when the ball is thrown-in by the umpire, or has been hit or hit at by a player.
2. Clock not stopped. The clock shall not be stopped when a goal is scored, or the ball goes out of play, unless the umpire blows the whistle to signal a penalty in case the ball is hit over the back line by a defender, or if there is undue delay in throwing-in the ball or a hit being taken by the defenders from the back line.

1.67 Match not Completed. If due to inclement weather or any other reason a match is delayed, the Tournament Committee shall consult the team captains and decide whether to start or postpone the match to a later time or date. If a game is already underway, the responsibility to stop, restart or postpone the game rests with the umpires, who shall consult the team captains whether to restart or postpone the match.

1.68 Foul on the Bell. If the bell rings for the end of chukker or match just after a foul has been committed but before the umpire has had time to blow his whistle, and the foul is confirmed, then the penalty shall be taken according the rules hereinabove on end of chukker, or end of last chukker as the case may be.

HOW A GAME IS WON

1.69 Winning. The team with the most goals, including those awarded on handicap, scored from play and from penalties wins the game.

1.70 Disputes about Goals on Handicap. Any objection about goals awarded on handicap must be raised before the start of a match. No objections about goals awarded on handicap shall be admitted thereafter, except for observations referred by the umpires or referee for resolution after the match.

SUBSTITUTION

1.71 Substitution. Once the draw of a tournament has been made, any change in the line-up of a team shall be governed by the rules on Substitution. Substitution in any situation can only be made by informing the match umpires.

1.72 Types of Substitutes. Substitutes shall be of two types:

1. Eligible Substitute: An eligible substitute is a player whose name is not in the tournament draw upto the moment of substitution.
2. Losing Player Substitute: A losing player substitute is a player who has already played in the tournament and lost; or whose name has been withdrawn from the tournament after the tournament draw has been made.
3. Exception: This exception shall apply only to players of handicap +5 and above, playing in tournaments of 14 goal and higher. If such player gets injured during the game and is unable to resume play and if no eligible substitute or losing player substitute of similar handicap is available at the time, only in such conditions the team shall be allowed to play a substitute who is also playing for another team in the tournament and is not yet a losing player. Even under such exceptional situation, the team must remain qualified to play in the tournament after the substitution has been made.

1.73 Qualification and Handicap. A team may play an eligible substitute or losing players substitute provided that the substitute must be qualified to play in the tournament and the team must remain qualified to play in the tournament after the substitution has been made. The handicap of a team playing with a substitute shall be calculated as follows:

1. Substitution before a game. The handicap of the substitute shall be used for computing the total handicap of the team. However, if the handicap of the substitute is lower than the original player, then the goal difference awarded at start of play will be reversed in favour of the opposite team. If the handicap of the substitute is higher than the original player, the higher handicap will continue to be in force till the end of the match.
2. Substitution during a game. The higher handicap, when comparing the original player and the substitute, shall be used for computing the total handicap of the team, irrespective of the duration of substitution. A player substituted during the game may retake his place at any time. However, if the handicap of the substitute is higher than the original player, the higher handicap will remain in force for the entire match even if the original player with lower handicap re-joins the team before the end of the match.

1.74 Deleted

1.75 Restrictions on Substitutions. In case of any substitution, the following restrictions shall apply:

1. No player can act as substitute for more than one team in the same tournament.
2. A team can make a maximum of 3 substitutions during a match, this includes substitutions made before start of the match. Original player returning to resume play will be counted as a substitution.
3. A team can play maximum two substitute players at any time in a match.
4. Only 4 player names shall be allowed in the team list for a tournament draw. Any additional players who play for a team shall be considered as substitutes and substitution rules shall apply accordingly.
5. In local club tournaments (i.e. below 8 goal level), the host club may apply conditions or restrictions for substitution in addition to the IPA Rules.

1.76 Three Player Teams. If a team, that requires a substitute, is unable to find a substitute who qualifies, such team may be permitted to play with one player short, provided the team remains qualified on handicap to play the tournament. The following conditions would apply:

1. Late Player. If a player is late or unable to play when a match is about to start, then such a team may play with three players, provided the team remains qualified on handicap to play the tournament. If the fourth player or his substitute subsequently joins in, he may do so only at the start of a chukker in which case, the handicap of the team shall be recalculated to include the handicap of the joining player or substitute. If the handicap of the joining player or substitute is 1-goal or higher, the score board shall altered accordingly in favour of the opposing team. If the handicap of the joining player or substitute is 0-goal or lower, the score board shall not be altered.
2. Player injured or sent-off. A team may be reduced to three players, if a player is injured or sent-off and no substitute is available to play; in which case the team may continue to play with an aggregate handicap that may be below or above the tournament limits. However, in the event of a subsequent substitution, the handicap of the original player shall be included in the calculations when judging eligibility of the substitute. The original player may re-join or a substitute may join the team at any time.
3. Team reduced to two players. If for any reason, a team is reduced to two players and is unable to find or play substitutes in place or the original players, then such team shall be considered withdrawn from the tournament.

1.77 Team Captain’s Obligations. A team may play a substitute player if an original player is unable to play due to non-availability or any other reason or because of injury sustained during the game. A team that intends making a substitution is obliged to do the following:

1. The team captain shall inform the umpire before the substitution.
2. The substitute player must report to the umpire upon entering the field before starting play.
3. The umpire shall inform the referee and opposing team captain about the substitution.
4. The umpire shall further inform the scorer/host club official, to record the substitution on the match score sheet.

1.78 Horses for the Substitute. It shall be the responsibility of the team seeking a substitute to mount the substitute.

1.79 International Matches. In international tournaments or matches being conducted under the aegis of the IPA, the rules for substitution may be modified as agreed between the competing teams. For any substitution in an international match, the Tournament Committee shall seek consent of the opposing team captain.

1.80 Violation of Substitution Rules. A team found guilty of violating the rules on substitution will be disqualified from the tournament.

TOURNAMENT FORMATS

1.81 Tournament Formats and Schedules. The host organisation may conduct a tournament over a league, knock-out or combination of both formats. Tournament formats and schedules shall be decided by the host organisation/club under the overall authority and approval of the Tournament Committee.

TOURNAMENT COMMITTEE

1.82 Tournament Committee. For all tournaments, the host club shall appoint a Tournament Committee comprising three or more members, totalling to an odd number of members. Unless specified otherwise in the tournament rules/ prospectus, the quorum for a Tournament Committee decision shall be two members. In absence of a duly constituted Tournament Committee, the Polo Manager or Secretary of the host club or his representative, along with the umpires and referee shall together be deemed as the Tournament Committee.

1.83 Responsibilities. The Tournament Committee shall have the overall responsibility of conducting a tournament, including:

1. Tournament format and draws
2. Eligibility of teams and players
3. Scheduling of matches
4. Appointment of officials

1.84 Authority. The Tournament Committee shall have authority over all matters pertaining to a tournament. This will include jurisdiction over any violation of these rules or offences committed within the polo grounds, except that the authority of the umpires and referee shall be absolute immediately before, during and immediately after the game on matters regarding the conduct of play. The umpires and referee shall be free to consult the Tournament Committee on any matter. The Tournament Committee shall have the authority for imposing disciplinary action and/or fines up to Rs 50,000 on a player, official or team including a ban of up to one year from all polo activity for violation of these rules, or for conduct not in the best interest of the sport. Any ban of over two weeks shall need to be ratified by the IPA. A ban imposed for violation of these rules shall continue through the next scheduled IPA tournaments, including tournaments held at different locations.

1.85 Appeals. A player, official or team may appeal to the IPA against a fine or ban imposed by the Tournament Committee, provided that such appeal shall be submitted in writing along with appeal fees as may be prescribed, within 24 hours of the player, official or team being notified of such fine/ban. A decision by the IPA on such an appeal filed by an aggrieved player, official or team shall be final and binding on the appellant. No further second appeal or revision appeal shall lie against a decision by the IPA on such appeals.