If a player's ball is inadvertently deflected or stopped by himself, his partner or one of their caddies or equipment, the player incurs a penalty of one stroke. The ball must be played as it lies, unless it comes to rest in or on the clothing or equipment of the player, his partner or one of their caddies. In this case, the ball must be dropped on the green as close as possible to the point immediately below the place where it came to rest in or on the object, but not closer to the hole, in the terrain or in an obstacle obstacle.
Exception 1: If the ball hits the person handling or holding up the flagstick or anything carried by them - see Rule 17-3b.
Exception 2: Dropped ball - see Rule 20-2a. (Ball deflected or intentionally or delayed by player, partner or caddie - see Rule 1-2).
Status: 2018