What should players do if they inadvertently leave the field during play?

Players who inadvertently leave the field during play must ask the referee for permission to return. This rule is designed to maintain the flow and safety of the game. When a player exits the field, whether due to an injury, to retrieve a ball, or for any other reason, that player's return must be acknowledged by the referee to ensure that the game continues properly and under the correct circumstances.

Asking for permission allows the referee to monitor player safety and maintain control of the match. It is essential for the referee to ensure that the player re-enters the field at an appropriate time to avoid conflicts or disruptions in the game play. This procedure helps protect both the player and the integrity of the game.

Options that suggest automatic substitution, immediate return without caution, or requiring a stoppage to return do not align with the regulation that governs player conduct and their re-entry into the match after leaving the designated playing area.