What happens if the center referee fails to appear for the match?

When the center referee fails to appear for the match, the assistant referee takes charge of the game. This is in accordance with the protocols established to ensure that a game can proceed smoothly despite the absence of the main official.

In this scenario, the assistant referee has the experience and the authority to step into the role of the center referee, allowing the match to continue while also ensuring that the laws of the game are upheld. This action maintains the flow of the game and provides the necessary control to enforce rules, manage player conduct, and make crucial decisions during the match.

The other choices present situations that are not standard practice in such an event. Canceling the match would be an extreme measure, and using a dual-referee system or playing without a referee altogether would jeopardize the integrity of the game and could lead to player disputes and confusion. Therefore, having the assistant referee take charge is the most practical and accepted solution in such circumstances.