Golf Match Play: Correct Procedure for Ball on Fringe & Penalty for Error

Question
Hi Skip,

My opponent in match play and I were both on the fringe of the green, not on the green.  I asked her to mark her ball so I could putt mine.  She marked behind it and tossed the ball aside about 4 feet.  If you are off the green, I thought you had to mark the ball, lift it with your fingers, hold it there, and then replace it carefully exactly as it was.  Am I correct?  If so, what is the penalty for doing it incorrectly?

Thanks so much for your help -
Nancy

Answer
Hi Nancy, thanks for the question.  You my dear, are correct.  When a player marks for another while off the green, they must keep that ball in play exactly as it was, by holding it themselves, without cleaning etc.  The penalty in match play is loss-of-hole. (two-strokes in medal) Unfortunately these things must be brought up at the time.  It is rare that a penalty can be incurred after the fact of signing etc.  Good luck, thanks again for asking and remember...

Love the game,
skipper