Which rules apply in England in 2026/27?

England Hockey uses the FIH Rules of Hockey 2026 (effective internationally from 1 March 2026) for all 11-a-side hockey, adult and junior, from the start of the 2026/27 season on 1 September 2026. Leagues and clubs could adopt them earlier for pre-season and summer events.

England Hockey's 2026/27 rule guidance highlights these changes:

• Rule 2.1: too many players on the field now means a yellow card for the captain where it materially affects the match.
• Rule 5.1: default timings are 15-minute quarters and a 10-minute half-time, but England Hockey competitions keep their own timings.
• Rules 8.2 and 13.3 a: stopping time after a goal or corner doesn't apply by default in England Hockey competitions.
• Rule 9.10: the aerial ball trial is now permanent. Defenders may approach once the receiver has touched the ball.
• Rule 10.2: goalkeepers may use stick and body to deflect the ball over the back-line.
• Rule 11.8: a ball hitting an umpire leads to a bully if it gives a team an advantage.
• Rule 13.3 n: penalty corner kit must be removed safely, with no self-pass while wearing it and a yellow card for thrown kit that hits someone on or above the knee.
• Goalkeeper gloves: the maximum length of the left-hand protector is now 365 mm.

FIH has published a further edition for 1 January 2027 at international level, but England Hockey's 2026/27 guidance is based on the 2026 rules.