roydo
in memoriam - 1965-2024
And why should the ref wait until the defending team is ready?
Because they have asked him to. Like you say, there is nothing to stop an attacking side take a quick free kick, (Leon Osman a few seasons ago springs to mind), but if they are prevented from doing so cos say a defender quickly stands by the ball to stop them, the ref will agree to let them get set.
Its like there isnt a rule that says a team must boot the ball out if someone is hurt, but they do.