Which of the following offenses committed by the team in possession of the ball does NOT require the referee to stop play?

The situation described in the question pertains to when a referee is required to stop play in a match. In this context, the correct answer, which involves an infringement of Law 4 concerning players' equipment, does not necessitate stopping play immediately.

When a team in possession of the ball commits an infringement related to players' equipment, such as wearing incorrect or unsafe gear, the play is generally allowed to continue momentarily until the ball is out of play, especially if stopping play would disadvantage the team with possession. The referee can address equipment issues at an appropriate time without impacting the flow of the game.

In contrast, other scenarios listed, such as a player receiving treatment for an injury, require immediate attention to ensure player safety. Tactical fouls by defenders typically lead the referee to stop play to enforce rules against unfair play. A handball that results in an advantage also prompts the referee to halt play, typically if it leads to a significant change in the game's dynamics.

Thus, understanding when play can continue despite equipment infringements allows the referee to apply discretion while maintaining the rhythm of the game. This highlights the balance between enforcing rules and ensuring the game is played fairly and safely.