Short Answer 
The example sentence illustrates the use of a restrictive clause, “who ran fastest,” which is essential for identifying the specific player being referred to. This clause provides necessary context and is not separated by commas, emphasizing its importance in conveying meaning.
Step 1: Identify the Sentence
In the example provided, the sentence is “I chose the player who ran fastest, but the other captain wanted the one with the hardest kick.” This sentence contains a restrictive clause that specifies which player is being referred to. Recognizing this sentence is crucial because it helps to illustrate the meaning of a restrictive clause in context.
Step 2: Understand the Role of Restrictive Clauses
A restrictive clause is essential for defining or clarifying the meaning of a noun or noun phrase. In this case, the restrictive clause “who ran fastest” provides necessary information about the player that distinguishes him from others. Without this clause, the sentence would lose pertinent details that clarify which player is meant.
Step 3: Analyze the Information Provided
The sentence demonstrates that the restrictive clause is not set off by commas, indicating its importance. The mention of the fourth option highlights it as the accurate response in this context. Understanding that this additional information about the player is crucial aids in recognizing the correct option.