Gee I dunno, could you imagine a Grand Final being decided by that? He should be allowed to put it on the ground and not have to kick it back. As long as he doesn't throw it further away the team should get their own damn ball. One day a big, exhausted ruckman will fluff his kick returning the ball for a free kick in a big final and the 50m will turn it into the winning goal with a minute on the clock. Won't be a good look.