Final answer:
In match play, if the opponent's ball strikes the player's ball at rest and moves it, the player has the option to play it as it lies or replace it. Thus the correct option 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the realm of golf, match play introduces a unique set of rules and nuances that distinguish it from stroke play. One intriguing scenario that may unfold in the general area involves the interaction between the opponent's ball and the player's ball at rest. According to the Rules of Golf, specifically Rule 11.1a(2), if, after a stroke, the opponent's ball strikes the player's ball at rest and causes it to move, the ruling unfolds with a generous degree of leniency.
Option 2 of Rule 11.1a(2) comes into play, where the key takeaway is the absence of a penalty. In this situation, the player is presented with a valuable choice: either play the ball from its new position following the inadvertent interaction or opt to restore the ball to its original location. This allowance for flexibility is a distinctive characteristic of match play, fostering a sense of sportsmanship and fair play.
Essentially, the rules acknowledge the unpredictability inherent in the game, understanding that inadvertent collisions between balls during play can occur without any intent or fault. This ruling reflects the spirit of match play, emphasizing strategic decisions and skillful maneuvers over penalizing players for unforeseen interactions on the course. It adds an element of strategy to the player's decision-making, as they weigh the advantages and disadvantages of playing the ball from its new position versus restoring it to its original spot. Ultimately, Rule 11.1a(2) exemplifies the nuanced and dynamic nature of match play in the enthralling world of golf.