Either before or when play is resumed:
- When Player's Ball Was Lifted When Play Stopped. The player must replace the original ball or another ball on the original spot (which if not known must be estimated) (See Rule 14.2).
- When Player's Ball Was Not Lifted When Play Stopped. The player may play the ball as it lies, or may mark the spot of the ball, lift the ball (See Rule 14.1) and replace that ball or another ball on the original spot (See Rule 14.2).
- If the lie of the ball is altered as a result of lifting the ball, the player must replace that ball or another ball as required under Rule 14.2d.
- If the lie of the ball is altered after the ball was lifted and before a ball is replaced, Rule 14.2d does not apply:
- The original ball or another ball must be replaced on the original spot (which if not known must be estimated) (See Rule 14.2).
- But, if the lie or other conditions affecting the stroke were worsened during this time, Rule 8.1d applies.
- Replace the original ball or another ball on the original spot (which if not known must be estimated) (See Rule 14.2), or
- Place a ball-marker to mark that original spot, and then replace the original ball or another ball on that spot (See Rules 14.1 and 14.2).
Penalty for Playing Ball from a Wrong Place in Breach of Rule 5.7d: General Penalty under Rule 14.7a.
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