Rules question · Rule 20.1c(3) · Expert
Played a second ball after my stroke: which one counts?
In stroke play, you take relief and play the dropped ball. Afterwards you have doubts whether that was right, and you play another ball from the original spot under Rule 20.1c(3). What is the ruling?
Answer
The first ball counts, and there is no penalty for the second
You must decide to play two balls before making a stroke. If you have already made one, Rule 20.1c(3) does not apply at all. The ball you played before counts. The second ball costs you nothing, but it does not help you either.