Rules and Etiquette

The Basics

The number of players in each team determines both the number of bowls used and typically the number of ends played. Lawn bowls is commonly played in four formats — singles, pairs, triples, and fours:

• Singles – One player per team, typically using two or four bowls.

• Pairs - Two players per team, again typically two or four bowls.

• Triples – Three players per team, each using three bowls, with 18 ends played.

• Fours – Four players per team, each using two bowls, with 21 ends played.

During play, bowlers aim to get their bowls as close as possible to the jack. If a bowl strikes and moves the jack, it stays where it comes to rest — even if it finishes in the ditch. The bowl that touched the jack is marked with chalk and called a toucher. If this toucher later lands in the ditch, it remains in play.

By contrast, if a bowl has not touched the jack and ends up in the ditch, it is considered a dead bowl and is removed from play. Players may also legally dislodge an opponent’s bowl out of bounds, which will also put it out of play.

General Etiquette

• Be punctual and prepared for your game.

• Greet opponents and teammates before play; shake hands at the start and finish.

• Show respect — stay still and silent when others are on the mat, and avoid distractions such as moving, casting shadows, or making unnecessary noise.

• Applaud good shots from all players, and accept lucky results gracefully.

• Never criticise opponents, teammates, the green, or officials.

• Keep play moving — help return bowls, set the mat, and collect equipment after the game.

On the Green

• Mat End: Stand at least 1 metre behind the mat when not playing.

• Head End: Stand well behind the head, avoiding the player’s line of sight, including rink markers or numbers that that a player may use for aiming. Keep clear until bowls come to rest and the score is agreed.

• Possession of the rink changes as soon as a bowl stops — only talk tactics when your team has possession.

• Do not walk across other rinks in play; cross only after a bowl has been delivered.

Roles & Responsibilities

Leads – Place the mat, deliver the jack, and keep the game flowing.
Seconds – Keep the scorecard accurate and assist with returning bowls.
Thirds/Vice Skips – Control the head when the skip is on the mat, measure shots when required.
Skips – Lead the team, decide tactics, and encourage all players.

Dress Code

• Flat‑soled, heel‑less shoes are required.

• Wear club colours or the correct attire for the competitive matches (white/grey trousers or shorts as instructed).