Opposing player gets cue ball in hand. This means
that the player can place the cue ball anywhere on the table (does not have to
be behind the headstring except on opening break). This rule prevents a player
from making intentional fouls, which would put his opponent at a disadvantage.
With "cue ball in hand," the player may use his hand or any part of
his cue (including the tip) to position the cue ball. When placing the cue ball
in position, any forward stroke motion contacting the cue ball will be a foul,
if not a legal shot.
From 1999 World Standardized Rules of 8-Ball
