What is the consequence if a player is penalised for a major infringement?

When a player is penalised for a major infringement in netball, the consequence is that a penalty pass is awarded to the opposing team. This rule is in place because major infringements are serious violations of the game’s rules, and awarding a penalty pass serves as a means to restore fairness in gameplay. A penalty pass allows the opposing team to take an unopposed shot, giving them a strategic advantage that can change the momentum of the game.

Warnings or free passes do not represent the level of consequence associated with major infringements, as they apply to less serious rule violations. Additionally, while the game may pause briefly to allow for a free pass or to re-establish order, the specific action taken as a result of a major infringement is the awarding of a penalty pass. Thus, the correct response clearly reflects the proportionality of the sanction to the severity of the infringement.