What action does a referee take if a match is abandoned?

When a match is abandoned, the appropriate action is often to reschedule or replay the match. Abandonment can occur for various reasons, such as adverse weather conditions, unsafe playing conditions, or incidents that could harm players or officials. The rules governing competitions typically provide guidance on how to handle abandoned matches, often stating that the match may need to be replayed or rescheduled to ensure a fair outcome and the integrity of the competition. This is particularly important in league formats or knockout competitions where the final result impacts standings or progression in the tournament.

The idea is that simply finishing the match or concluding it with the current score may not accurately reflect the situation, especially if the abandonment occurs partway through the game. Leaving the decision up to the teams is generally not part of the referee's responsibilities, as it could lead to disputes or inconsistencies. Therefore, the established protocols for handling abandoned matches are designed to maintain fairness and order in the sport.