25. MATCH OFFICIALS
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25.1 An umpire shall be appointed for each match. Where practical, 1 or
2 assistant umpires will also be appointed.
25.2 The umpire shall sit in line with the net and the assistant umpire
or umpires shall sit facing him, at the other side of the table. When there
is 1 assistant umpire he shall sit in line with the net. When there are
2 assistant umpires, they shall sit in line with the end lines.
25.3 The umpire shall be responsible for:
25.3.1 Checking the acceptability of equipment and playing conditions and
reporting any deficiency to the referee.
25.3.2 Taking a ball at random if the players are unable to agree on a choice.
25.3.3 Controlling the order of serving, receiving and ends and
correcting any errors therein.
25.3.4 Deciding each rally as a point or a let.
25.3.5 Calling the score in accordance with specified procedure.
25.3.6 Introducing the expedite system at the appropriate time.
25.3.7 Maintaining the continuity of play.
25.3.8 Ensuring observation of the regulations concerning advice to the
players and the behavior of players.
25.4 Except as provided in Rule 25.5, either the umpire or the assistant
umpire may decide:
25.4.1 That a player's service action is illegal.
25.4.2 That a player obstructs the ball.
25.4.3 That, in an otherwise good service, the ball touches the net assembly
while passing over or around it.
25.4.4 That the ball in play touches the side of the table top facing him,
the top edge of the playing surface on that side, or neither.
25.4.5 That the conditions of play are disturbed in a way which may affect
the outcome of the rally.
25.5 When there are 2 assistant umpires, each shall make the decisions listed
in Rule 25.4 only in respect of a player at his end of the table or the
half-side of the table nearest to him.
25.6 A decision made by either the umpire or an assistant umpire in accordance
with the provisions of Rule 25.4 may not be overruled by the other official.
25.7 Either the umpire or an assistant umpire may time the duration of the
practice period, of play, and of any intervals.
25.8 If there is 1 assistant umpire, a separate official shall act as stroke
counter when the expedite system is in operation. If there are 2 assistant
umpires, each shall act as stroke counter when the receiver is at his end
of the table.