Forward and Backward Pass
ARTICLE 2.
b. When a Team A player is holding the ball to pass it forward toward the neutral zone, any intentional forward movement of the passer’s hand with the ball firmly in their control starts the forward pass unless the player clearly starts to bring the ball back with firm control to the passer’s body. If a Team B player contacts the passer or ball after forward movement begins and the ball leaves the passer’s hand, a forward pass is ruled regardless of where the ball strikes the ground or a player.
Approved Ruling 2-19-2 I. A1 intends to throw a forward pass, but B1 bats the ball from his hand before A1’s hand starts forward. RULING: Fumble (Rule 2-11-1).