Following the release of the WBSC Rule Book 2026-2029 and subsequent WBSC Rules and Technical Commission review for the 2026-2029 Fast Pitch Playing Rules, the following Pitching Rule changes for Softball New Zealand (SNZ) Competitions are explained below.
Introduction
This following information is to advise of Softball New Zealand’s decision on the implementation of the WBSC Way of Pitching for 2026-2029 and to inform all stakeholders of this action which covers the next four (4) year cycle. Reasoning/comments are also provided.
WBSC Way of Pitching Playing Rules
4.3.2 STARTING THE PITCH
b) The pivot foot must remain in contact with the pitcher’s plate prior to the start of the pitch. Lifting the pivot foot off the pitcher’s plate and returning it to the plate, or creating a rocking motion, is an illegal act.
Reasoning/comment:
Although only one word has been added to the rule wording, WBSC has strengthened this rule through the addition of the term “or”, making each action a separate illegal act.
The pitcher is not permitted to lift and return the pivot foot to the pitcher’s plate or create a rocking motion. This clarification provides a clearer enforcement standard and supports more consistent management of pitching mechanics at the international level.
Lifting and re-planting a foot, or lifting, sliding and re-planting a foot, creates a secondary driving, rebound, or re-loading action that generates additional momentum and velocity into the delivery and is illegal.
From an umpiring perspective, losing contact with the pitcher’s plate prior to the start of the pitch will constitute an illegal act.
Pitching Lane
4.3.3 LEGAL DELIVERY - FASTPITCH
e) In the act of delivering the ball, the pitcher may take one step with the stepping (non-pivot) foot simultaneously with the release of the ball. The step must be forward toward home plate and within the 61.0 cm (24 in.) length of the pitcher’s plate. It is not a step if the pitcher slides either foot across the pitcher’s plate, provided contact is maintained with the plate and there is no movement backward off the plate.
Reasoning/comment:
The pitcher must approach home plate, as approaching the batter, who is in the batter’s box, may place them outside the pitching lane.
4.3.5 FOREIGN SUBSTANCES
a) No defensive team member may at any time during the game use a foreign substance on a ball. A pitcher who moistens or licks their fingers on their pitching hand must dry them before contacting the ball.
Reasoning/comment:
The action of wetting the fingers with a foreign substance is not limited to licking the fingers.
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This is an Approved SNZ Technical Bulletin for use in New Zealand and is current as of 22 October 2026.
Casey Eden Wiremu Tamaki
Chief Executive Officer Umpire in Chief
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