When are players allowed to appeal to the referee for clarification on faults?

Players are allowed to appeal to the referee for clarification on faults once the match has started, but this is typically limited to the team captain. This rule is in place to maintain the flow of the game and to prevent disruptions, as constant interruptions for clarification by all players could hinder the match's progress. The captain acts as the representative for the team, ensuring that any inquiries regarding faults or other regulations are appropriately communicated to the referee.

The option about appealing at any time during the game overlooks the structure and management of game flow. Appealing before the match starts is irrelevant since no faults can occur until the match is in progress. Although players can seek clarification after a rally ends, this option lacks the specificity regarding the role of the captain, which is crucial in the context of understanding how appeals work during a match.