Handball
Seven-metre throws, fouls and punishments in handball
How current IHF indoor handball rules handle clear scoring chances, 7-metre throws, progressive punishment, two-minute suspensions and disqualifications.
A 7-metre throw protects a clear scoring chance
A 7-metre throw is awarded when a clear chance of scoring is illegally destroyed by an opponent or team official, and in certain interruptions that remove such a chance. If the attacker keeps full control and the chance remains, referees should allow play to continue instead of awarding the throw immediately.
The throw has strict positioning and timing
The throw is taken as a shot on goal within three seconds after the referee’s whistle. The thrower stands behind the 7-metre line, no more than one metre behind it; teammates stay outside the free-throw line, opponents stay outside that line and at least three metres from the 7-metre line, and the goalkeeper must not cross the 4-metre restraining line before release.
Punishments escalate with the seriousness of the offence
IHF rules distinguish progressive punishment from sanctions that must be given immediately. Progressive cases can begin with a warning; more serious conduct can require a direct two-minute suspension, and dangerous or particularly serious conduct can lead to disqualification.
Suspensions and disqualifications affect team strength
A two-minute suspension removes the player for two minutes and reduces the team on court for that period. A player’s third suspension leads to disqualification. Some disqualifications also require a written report so the responsible authority can consider further measures after the match.