The game consists of two teams that have eleven players. Each player is allowed to be on the pitch at one time. A substitution on the remaining players is also permitted. The sub in and the sub out of the players can happen in an countless number of times. Substitution is allowed at any part of the game, except from between the award and the end of a penalty corner. The exception for the said rule is when there is an injury or suspension of the defending goal keeper.

The players in the game are also allowed to hit the ball with the use of the flat or the face side and with the edges of the head and handle of the field hockey stick. For safety reasons, the hockey ball must not be struck hard with the use for a forehand edge stroke because such stroke is known for its difficulty in determining the height and the direction of the ball.

For a right-handed player, the flat side is always the natural side wherein the player hits the hockey ball from left to right. There are also left-handed hockey sticks which are available but considered as no point of use as the rules implemented forbid them from being use in the game. In striking the ball with a left to right swing, the player must use the flat of the face of the hockey stick to the ball by making a reverse of the stick head. Saying for example, the player must turn the handle through 180 degrees (as the reverse edge hit would turn the stick through 90 degrees from the position of an upright forehand stroke with the face of the stick head.

Hitting the edge of the ball is still considered as controversial in the sport. Ric Charlesworth, the current Australian coach for the team in Australia, has been expressing his strong objection about this unrestricted way of hitting the ball. It was banned after a number of related concerns were spoken regarding the capability of some players to direct the ball perfectly accurate, though the reverse edge hit is not considered as predictable and controllable than its equivalent.

No foot to ball contact, obstructing other players, high back swinging, no third party are some of the other rules that are implemented. Another rule that is implemented is can be put explained in this scenario: a player dribbles the ball then suddenly either loses control and kicks the ball or another player butts in the said player is not permitted to gain control of the ball and continue dribble. The rules that are implemented restricted the person who kicked the ball to gain advantage from the kick, so that means that the ball is then passed on to the opposing team.

To check out further rules regarding how the game is played, have a read through our blog for guides, training, and other useful information.

You may also find a useful video below for beginners: