What happens if a player breaks before the whistle is blown for a centre pass?

When a player breaks before the whistle is blown for a centre pass, the correct outcome is that the player is cautioned for breaking. In netball, "breaking" refers to a player moving into the centre third or over the centre circle before the whistle is sounded. This action is considered premature and is against the rules of the game. Consequently, players who violate this rule are cautioned to maintain order and fairness during play.

Being cautioned serves as a warning to the player, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the game's rules. It is also a way to discourage this behaviour in future plays. The choice of cautioning rather than a point deduction or substitution reflects the emphasis on maintaining the flow of the game while reinforcing the need for players to follow proper procedures during set plays, such as centre passes. This approach not only protects the integrity of the game but also aids in the development of players' understanding of the regulations involved.