Question

Explain the procedure of substitution in the game of hockey.

Answer 1

1. A player who is to be replaced leaves the pitch at the agreed entry/exit area (usually the centre‑line near the team bench).
2. The substitute waits off the field and only steps onto the pitch after the teammate is fully off. If play is live, teams must time this so the incoming player does not enter while the outgoing player is still on the playing surface.
3. If a substitution is attempted during a penalty corner or other restricted moment, the umpire will prohibit it until the corner (or the restricted period) is completed.
4. If the goalkeeper is injured or suspended, different/exceptional replacement provisions may apply (and time stoppage for goalkeeper replacement can occur under some conditions) - teams should follow the competition/umpire instructions in those cases.