How does the self-pass work, and when can the ball go into the circle?

FIH Rule 13.2 d and f (wording simplified for 2027). The player taking a free hit may keep playing the ball themselves (a self-pass).

Attacking free hit inside the 23-metre area:

• The ball must not enter the circle until it has been played by an attacker after travelling at least 5 m (not necessarily in one direction), or been touched by a defender.
• On a self-pass, the taker may play the ball any number of times, but it must travel 5 m before they play it into the circle.
• Once a defender has touched it, the restriction ends and the ball may enter the circle.
• The ball may be lifted high over the circle to land outside it, unless that's dangerous or another player can legitimately play it in or above the circle during its flight.
• A breach is treated as happening where the ball enters the circle.

Free hit within 5 m of the circle:

• Taken immediately: defenders inside the circle within 5 m may shadow the self-passing player around the inside of the circle, but must not play, try to play or interfere until the ball has travelled 5 m or been touched by a defender who can legitimately play it.
• Not taken immediately: everyone else must be 5 m away before it's taken.

Ball must be stationary (13.2 a): FIH says umpires are often too lenient, especially on quick self-passes. There must be a clear, visible attempt to stop the ball.