LAW 45 (C) when is a CARD PLAYED

When is a card played?  As can be seen from Law 45 (C) below it is different for defender and declarer.  Clearly if a card is shown during defence then defender's partner is advantaged by knowing what card is held so the rule is, a card is played if it is possible for his partner to see its face.  When a card is shown by declarer the only side to advantage from this by knowing what is held is the opposition so the rule for declarer is, a card is played if (a) held face up, touching or nearly touching the table; or (b) maintained in such a position as to indicate that it has been  (i.e. not is being) played. 

LAW 45 (C) Compulsory Play of Card

1. A defender’s card held so that it is possible for his partner to see its face must be played to the current trick.

2. Declarer must play a card from his hand if it is (a) held face up, touching or nearly touching the table; or (b) maintained in such a position as to indicate that it has been played.