World Bowls Board
Laws of the Game
Definitions
1.(a)
"Controlling Body" means the body having immediate control of the
conditions under which a match is played. The order shall be:
(i)
The World Bowls Board (W.B.B.), the World Indoor Bowls Council
(W.I.B.C.), the International Women's Bowling Board (I.W.B.B.).
(ii) The National Bowling Authority or grouping of National Bowls
authorities.
(iii) Divisions within National Authorities
(iv) The Club on whose Green the Match is played.
(b) "Skip" means the Player who is in charge of the team.
(c) "Team" means either a Four, Triples or a Pair.
(d) "Side" means any agreed number of Teams and/or Singles Players,
whose combined scores determine the results of the match.
(e) "Four" means a team of four players whose positions in order of
playing are named, Lead, Second, Third, Skip.
(f)
"Bowl in its original Course" means a Bowl from the time of its
delivery until it comes to rest, regardless of how many times it may be
deflected before coming to rest.
(g) "End" means the placing
of the Mat, the delivery of the Jack and the playing of all the
required Bowls of all the opponents in the same direction on a rink.
(h)
"Head" means the Jack and such Bowls as have come to rest within the
boundary of the rink and are not dead. (See Laws35 and 40).
(i)
"Mat Line" means the edge of the Mat which is nearest to the front
ditch. From the centre of the Mat Line as necessary measurements to
Jack or Bowls shall be taken.
(j) "Reference Bowl" means a
Bowl which has been approved by the W.B.B. as having the minimum bias
required, as well as in all other respects complying with the Laws of
the Game and is engraved with the words "Reference Bowl".
(i) A Reference Bowl shall be kept in the custody of each National
Authority.
(ii) A Reference Bowl shall be provided for the use of each official
Licensed Tester.
(k)
"Jack High" means that the nearest portion of the Bowl referred to is
in line with and at the same distance from the Mat Line as the nearest
portion of the Jack.
(l) "Pace of Green" means the number of
seconds taken by a Bowl from the time of its delivery to the moment it
comes to rest, approximately 27m from the Mat Line.
(m) "Displaced" as applied to a Jack or Bowl means "disturbed" by any
agency that is not sanctioned by these Laws.
(n)
"A Set of Bowls" means four Bowls all of a matched set which are of the
same manufacture, and of the same size, weight, colour, bias and where
applicable serial number and engraving. In all games each player shall
play with the appropriate number of Bowls from the same set.
(o) "Holding Surface" means a product to stop the Jack or Bowl from
running along the ditch.
(p) "Set" means a pre-determined number of shots or ends, forming part
of the overall match.
(q) "Delivery" means when the Jack or Bowl is released intentionally
from the hand.
(r)
"Domestic" means any play under the control of a Controlling Body other
than the World Bowls Board, World Indoor Bowls Council, International
Women's Bowling Board. .
(s) "Former Position" means the location
of a Bowl or Jack at rest on the rink of play or in the ditch
immediately prior to being displaced.
The Green, Ditch and Banks
2. The Green - Area
and Surface :
The
Green shall be a rectangle, have a suitable level playing surface and
be provided with suitable boundaries in the form of a ditch and bank.
The length shall not be less than 34m and not more then 40m in the
direction of play.
3. The Ditch
The
Green shall be surrounded by a ditch which shall have a holding surface
which is free from obstacles, and is not injurious to Jack or Bowls.
The ditch shall not be less than 200mm nor more than 380mm wide and it
shall not be less than 50mm nor more than 200mm deep. In the case of
Indoor Greens only the end ditches in the direction of play must comply
with the afore-mentioned standards.
4. The Bank
The
bank shall be not less than 230mm above the level of the green,
preferably upright, or alternatively at an angle of not more than 35
degrees from the perpendicular. The surface of the face of the bank
shall be not-injurious to Jack or Bowls.
No steps likely to interfere with play shall not be cut into the bank.
5. Division of the Green
The Green shall be
divided into spaces called rinks.
Outdoor
GreenRinks shall be not less than 4.5m nor more then 5.8m wide. The
rinks shall be numbered consecutively, the centre line of each rink
being marked on the bank at each end by a wooden peg or other suitable
device. The four corners of the rink shall be marked by pegs made of
wood or other suitable material, painted white or distincly coloured
and fixed to the face of the bank and flush therewith or alternatively
fixed on the bank not more than 100mm back from the face thereof. The
corner pegs may be connected by a green thread drawn tightly along the
surface of the green with sufficient loose thread to reach the
corresponding pegs on the face or surface of the bank, in order to
define the boundary of the rink.
The centre line of each rink may be defined upon the surface of the
green for a distance of 4m starting 2m from each ditch.
White
or distinctive coloured pegs or discs shall be fixed on the side of the
banks to indicate a clear distance of 25m from the ditch on the line of
play. Under no circumstances shall the boundary thread be lifted while
the Bowl is in motion. The boundary pegs of an outside rink shall be
placed at least 600mm from the side ditch.
Indoor Green
Rinks
used for play under the direct control of the W.I.B.C. shall be not
less than 4.6m nor more than 5.8m wide. The rinks shall be numbered
consecutively and the numbers may be placed on the face of the bank, on
top of the bank, or on the wall behind the bank, but shall always be on
the centre line of the rink. The centre of the rink shall be clearly
indicated. The four corners of the rink shall be indicated by markers,
affixed to the face of the bank and flush therewith, or alternatively
fixed on the bank not more than 100mm back from the face thereof. These
markers shall be of a material which cannot cause damage to Bowls or
Jack. The marker shall be not more than 25mm in width, and the centre
of the marker shall be clearly marked by a thin black line. The
boundary pegs of an outside rink shall be placed at least 460mm from
the side ditch. Similar markers shall be fixed to the side banks to
indicate a clear distance of 25m from the end ditch on the line of
play. An unobtrusive marker in the form of a "T" may be affixed to the
carpet with the short leg of the "T" being parallel to and 2m from the
edge of the ditch, the junction indicating the centre lint of the rink.
The W.I.B.C. reserve the right to put additional marks/markers
on the green to assist with the positioning of the mat and/or centring
the Jack. In the event of part of the Green being used to accommodate
spectators, side ditches may be dispensed with, but the distance
markers must be brought forward and fixed in a suitable manner. They
must be clearly visible to all players. During the period of provision
of temporary seating on the Green there must be a completely
unrestricted area of the green of at least 900mm in width between the
seated area and the outside boundary of the nearest rink.
6. Outdoor Variations of Laws 2 and 5
(a) National Authorities
may admit greens not longer than 40m nor shorter than 31m in the
direction of play.
(b)
For domestic play the Green may be divided into Rinks, not less than
4.3m nor more than 5.8m wide. National Authorities may dispense with
the use of boundary threads.
(c) National Authorities may approve artificial surfaces for domestic
play.
Indoor Variations of Laws 2, 3, 4 and 5
Variations to the above mentioned Laws will only be permitted if:-
(a)
It can be established to the satisfaction of the Controlling Body that
such variation is essential to the efficient running of the Club or.-
(b) Such variation is permitted under National
Mat & Jack
7. Mat
The mat shall be of a size 600mm long and 360mm wide.
8. Jack
The Jack shall be spherical, and white or yellow in colour.
Outdoor Specifications
The diameter of the Jack shall not be less than 63mm, nor more than
64mm and not less than 225g nor more than 285g in weight.
Indoor and Outdoor Synthetic Greens Specifications
The diameter of the Jack shall be not less than 63mm nor more than 67mm
and not less than 382g nor more than 453g in weight.
BOWLS
9. Bowls
(a)
(i) Bowls shall be made of wood, rubber or composition and shall be
black, brown or any other colour acceptable to the W.B.B., W.I.B.C.or
I.W.B.B. Each Bowl of the set shall bear an individual distinguishing
mark on each side of the Bowl.
The provision relating to the
distinguishing marks need not apply other than in International
Matches, World Bowls Championship and Commonwealth Games.
Bowls
made of wood (lignum vitae) shall have a maximum diameter of 134mm and
a minimum diameter of 116mm and the weight shall not exceed 1.59kg.
(ii)
Bowls intended for play in World Championships, International Matches
and Commonwealth Games Matches, and made of rubber or composition shall
have a maximum diameter of 131mm and a minimum diameter of 116mm and
the weight shall not exceed 1.59kg.
Subject to Bowls bearing a
current stamp of the W.B.B., and provided they comply with the Laws of
the Game, they may be used in all matches under the control of the
W.B.B., W.I.B.C.or I.W.B.B. or any Member National Authority.
Outdoor Requirements :
Not
withstanding the aforegoing provisions, any Member National Authority
may adopt a different scale of weights and sizes of Bowls to be used in
matches under its own control - such Bowls may not be validly used in
International Matches, World Bowls Championships, Commonwealth Games or
other matches controlled by the Board if they differ from the Board's
Laws, and unless stamped with a current stamp of the Board or any
Member National Authority or the B.I.B.C.
(iii) The
"Controlling Body" may, at its discretion, supply and require players
to temporarily affix a single adhesive marking to each side of their
Bowls in any competition game. Any marking under this Law shall be
regarded as part of the Bowl for all purposes under these Laws.
(b) Bias of Bowls
The
Reference Bowl shall have a bias approved by the World Bowls Board. All
Bowls shall have a bias of not less than that of the Reference Bowl,
and shall bear the imprint of the Stamp of the International Bowling
Board / World Bowls Board.
National Authorities may adopt
a standard which exceeds the bias of the Reference Bowl. To ensure
accuracy of bias and visibility of stamp, all Bowls shall be re-tested
and re-stamped at least once every ten years, or earlier if the date of
the stamp is not clearly legible.
Indoor Requirements :
Bowls shall only require to be re-tested and re-stamped if the date of
the stamp is not clearly legible.
The
W.I.B.C. and other Indoor Controlling Bodies reserve the right to test
Bowls intended for play in any indoor Bowls event under their direct
control.
The test may be a Table Test or a Green Test depending on the
availability of test facilities.
(c) Bowls Failing Test
If
a Bowl in the hands of a Licensed Tester is declared as not complying
with Law 9 (b), it shall be altered, if possible, so as to comply,
before being returned.
The owner of the Bowls shall be responsible for the expense involved.
If
the Bowl cannot be altered to comply with Law 9 (a) and (b) any current
official stamp appearing thereon shall be cancelled prior to its
return. The stamp shall be cancelled by the tester stamping an X over
any current official stamp.
Bowls submitted for testing must be in sets of four.
(d) Objection to Bowls
A challenge may be lodged by any opposing player and/or by the Official
Umpire and/or the Controlling Body.
A challenge or any intimation thereof shall not be lodged with any
opposing player during the progress of a match.
A
challenge may be lodged with the Umpire at any time during a Match,
provided the Umpire is not a player in that or any other match of the
same competition.
If a challenge be lodged it shall be made
not later than 10 minutes after the completion of the final end in
which the Bowl was used.
Once a challenge is lodged with the umpire it cannot be withdrawn.
The
challenge shall be based on the grounds that the Bowl does not comply
with one or more of the requirements set out in Law 9 (a) and (b).
The
Umpire shall request the user of the Bowl to surrender it to him for
forwarding to the Controlling Body. If the owner of the challenged Bowl
refuses to surrender it to the Umpire, the Match shall thereupon be
forfeited to the opponent. The user or owner, or both, may be
disqualified from playing in any match controlled or permitted by the
Controlling Body, so long as the Bowl remains untested by a Licensed
Tester.
On receipt of the Bowl, the Umpire shall take
immediate steps to hand them to the Secretary of the Controlling Body,
who shall arrange for a table test to be taken as soon as practicable
and in the presence of a representative of the Controlling Body. If a
table test be not readily available, and any delay would unduly
interfere with the progress of the competition, then, should an
approved green testing device be available, it may be used to make an
immediate test on the green. If a green test be made it shall be done
by, or in the presence of, the Umpire over a distance of not less than
21m. The comparison shall be between the challenged Bowl and the
Reference W.B.B. Test Bowl, or if it be not readily available then a
Bowl bearing the current stamp, of similar size or nearly so, should be
used.
The decision of the Umpire, as a result of the test, shall be final and
binding for that match.
The result of the subsequent table test shall not invalidate the
decision given by the Umpire on a green test.
If
a challenged Bowl after an official table test, be found to comply with
Law 9 (a) and (b), it shall be returned to the user or owner.
If
a challenged Bowl be found not to comply with Law 9 (a) and (b), the
match in which it was played shall be forfeited to the opponent.
If
a Bowl in the hands of a Licensed Tester has been declared as not
complying with the Law 9 (b), it shall be altered, if possible, so as
to comply, before being returned. The owner of the Bowl shall be
responsible for the expenses involved.
If the Bowl cannot be
altered to comply with Law 9 (a) and (b), any current official stamp
appearing thereon shall be cancelled prior to its return. The stamp
shall be cancelled by the Tester stamping an X over any current
official stamp.
(e) Alteration to Bias
A player shall
not alter, or cause to be altered, other than by an Official Bowl
Tester, the bias of any Bowl, bearing the imprint of the official stamp
of the W.B.B., under penalty of suspension from playing for a period to
be determined by the National Authority, of which his club is a member.
Such suspension shall be subject to confirmation by the Board, or a
Committee thereof appointed for that purpose, and shall be operative
among all Authorities in membership with the W.B.B., W.I.B.C., I.W.B.B.
or W.I.B.C.L.S.
FOOTWEAR
10. Footwear
Players,
Umpires and Markers shall wear white, brown or black smooth-soled
heelless footwear while playing on the green or acting as Umpires or
Markers. The World and National Authorities reserve the right to allow
the use of other colours of footwear
Arranging a Game and Player Status
11. General form and duration
A
game of Bowl shall be played on one rink or on several rinks. It shall
consist of a specified number of shots or ends, or shall be played for
any period of time as previously arranged.
The ends of the game shall be played alternately in opposite directions
excepting as provided in Laws 37, 41, 43, 45 and 46.
12. Selecting the rinks for play
When
a match is to be played, the draw for the rinks to be played on shall
be made by the Skips or their representatives or their Controlling
Body.
In a match for a trophy or where competing Skips have
previously been drawn, the draw to decide the number of the rink to be
played on shall be made by the visiting Skips or their representatives
or the Controlling Body.
No player in a competition or match
shall play on the same rink on the day of such competition or match
before play commences under penalty of disqualification.
This Law shall not apply in the case of Open Tournaments.
13. Play arrangements
Games shall be organised in the following arrangements.
(a) As a single game.
(b) As a team game.
(c) As a sides game.
(d) As a series of single games, team games or sides games.
(e) As a special tournament of games.
14.
A singles game shall be played between two players, each playing two,
three or four of a set of Bowls singly and alternately, the number of
Bowls being determined by the Controlling Body.
15. A
Pairs game by two contending teams, each of two players who shall play
the determined number of a set of Bowls in the order designated by the
Controlling Body.
16. A Triples game shall be
played by two contending teams of three players, who shall play two or
three of a set of Bowls singly and in turn.
17.
A Fours game shall be played by two contending teams, each of four
players, who shall play two of a set of Bowls singly and in turn.
18. A side game shall be played by two
contending sides, each composed of an equal number of teams / players.
19. Games in a series shall be arranged to be
played on several consecutive occasions as:
(a)
A series or sequence of games organised in the form of an eliminating
competition, and arranged as Singles, Pairs, Triples or Fours.
(b)
A series or sequence of side matches organised in the form of a league
competition, or an eliminating competition, or of Inter-Association
matches.
20. A special Tournament of Games :
Single
games and team games may also be arranged in group form as a special
tournament of games in which the contestants play each other in turn,
or they may play as paired-off teams of players on one of several
greens in accordance with the common time-table, success being adjudged
by the number of games won, or by the highest net score in shots in
accordance with the regulations governing the Tournament.
21. Championships and International Matches
Outdoor Version
For International Matches, World Bowls Championships and Commonwealth
Games in matches where played.
(a) Singles shall be played 21 shots up (shots in excess of 21 shall
not count), four Bowls each player played alternately;
(b) Pairs shall be 21 ends, four Bowls each player, played alternately;
(c) Triples shall be 18 ends, three Bowls each player, played
alternately;
(d) Fours shall be 21 ends, two Bowls each player, played alternately;
PROVIDED
that Pairs, Triples and Fours may be of a lesser number of ends, but in
the case of Pairs and Fours there shall not be less than 18 ends and in
the case of Triples not less than 15 ends, subject in all cases to the
express approval of the Board as represented by its most senior officer
present. If there be no officer of the Board present at the time, the
decision shall rest with the "Controlling Body" as defined in Law 1.
Any decision to curtail the number of ends to be played shall be made
before the commencement of any game, and such decision shall only be
made on the grounds of climatic conditions, inclement weather, or
shortage of time to complete a programme.
Indoor Version
In
all forms of competitive play under the direct control of the World
Indoor Bowls Council or World Indoor Bowls Council Ladies Section, each
player shall play the same number of Bowls as his direct opponent. The
Controlling Body shall determine in advance the number of Bowls to be
played. In competitive indoor Bowls play there will normally be a time
limit on play. The time restriction on play will be determined by the
Controlling Body in advance of the commencement of play, and time
Limits must always be taken into consideration with the following
sub-paragraphs:
(a) Singles may be played with two, three or
four Bowls each player playing alternately. Singles shall be of
twenty-one (21) shots or such other format as agreed in advance by the
Controlling Body. (Shots in excess of the pre-determined total shall
not count).
(b) Pairs shall be twenty-one (21) ends, or such
other format as agreed in advance by the Controlling Body. Two, three
or four Bowls may be played, each player playing alternately.
(c)
Triples shell be eighteen (18) ends, or such other format as agreed in
advanceby the Controlling Body. Two or three Bowls may be played. each
player playing alternately.
(d) Fours shall be twenty-one (21)
ends, or sum other format as agreed in advance by the Controlling Body.
Two Bowls shall be played, each player playing alternately.
(e)
Side games under the direct control of the World Indoor Bowls Council
or World Indoor Bowls Council Ladies Section shall be of twenty-one
(21) ends, provided that pairs, triples and fours may be of a lesser
number of ends, but in the case of pairs and fours these shall not Be
less then eighteen (18) ends, and in the case of triples not less than
fifteen (15) ends, subject in all cases to the express approval of the
World Indoor Bowls Council as represented by its senior officer
present. If no such officer be present at the time, then the decision
shall rest with the Controlling Body as defined in Law 1.
Any
decision to curtail the number of ends to be played shall be made
before the commencement of any game, and such decision shall only be
due to, or on the grounds of shortage of time to complete a programme.
In the event of a power failure causing "Blackout" the Controlling Body
shall determine what course of action to be taken.
Starting the Game
22. (a) Trial ends
Before
start of play in any competition, match or game or on the resumption of
an unfinished competition, match or game on another day, not more than
one trial end each way shall be played.
(b) Tossing for opening play
The
Captains or Managers in a side game or Skips in a team game, or
opponents in a Singles game shall toss to decide which side, team or
opponent shall play First. The winner of the toss shall have the option
of decision. In the event of a tied (no score) or a "dead" end, the
first to play in the tied end or "dead" end shall again play first.
In all ends subsequent to the first the winner of the preceding scoring
end shall play first.
23. Placing the Mat
At
the beginning of the first end the player to play first shall place the
centre line of the mat lengthwise on the centre line of the rink, the
mat line to be not less than 2m from the rear ditch and not less than
25m from the front ditch.
Outdoor Variation
Where
groundsheets are in use, the Controlling Body will direct the location
of the mat line for the first and every subsequent end.
24. The Mat and it's replacement
After play has commenced in any end, the mat shall not be moved from
its first position except in the following circumstances:-
(a) If the mat be displaced during the progress of an end it shall be
replaced as near as practicable in the same position.
(b) If the mat be out of alignment with the centre line it shall be
straightened.
(c)
Should the mat be picked up by a player before the end has been
completed, the opposing player shall have the right of replacing the
mat in its origional position.
(d) After the last Bowl in each
end has come to rest in play, or has sooner become dead, the mat shall
be lifted and placed wholly beyond the face of the rear bank.
25. (a) The Mat and Jack in subsequent ends
In
all subsequent ends mat line shall be not less than 2m from the rear
ditch and not less than 25m from the front ditch and on the centre line
of the rink of play.
(b) Should the Jack be improperly
delivered under Law 29, the opposing player may then move the mat in
the line of play, subject to Clause (a) above and deliver the Jack,
ensuring that it is centred, but shall not play first. Should the Jack
be improperly delivered once by each player in any end, it shall not be
delivered again in that end, but it shall be centred so that the front
of the Jack is a distance of 2m from the opposite ditch, and the mat
placed at the option of the first to play.
If after the Jack
is set at regulation Length from the ditch (2m), and both players each
having improperly delivered the Jack once, the end is made dead, the
winner of the preceding scoring end shall deliver the Jack when the end
is played anew.
(c) No one shall be permitted to challenge the
legality of the original position of the mat after the first to play
has delivered the first Bowl.
26. Stance on the Mat
A player, at the moment of delivering the Jack or Bowl, shall have one
foot entirely within the confines of the mat.
27. Foot-faulting
Should
a player infringe the Law of foot-faulting the Umpire shall, after
having given a warning, have the Bowl stopped and declared dead. If the
Bowl has disturbed the head, the opponent shall have the option of
either:
(a) resetting the head
(b) leaving the head as altered, or
(c) declaring the end dead.
28. Delivering the Jack
The
player to play first shall deliver the Jack and ensure that it is
properly centred. If the Jack in its original course comes to rest at a
distance of less than 2m from the front ditch, it shall be moved out to
a mark at that distance and centred with the nearest portion of the
Jack to the mat line being 2m from the edge of the front ditch, by
setting it alongside the edge of a 2m measuring device.
If the
Jack during its original course be obstructed or deflected by a neutral
object or neutral person, or by a marker, Opponent, or member of the
opposing team, it shall be redelivered by the same player. If it be
obstructed or deflected by a member of his own team, it shall be
redelivered by the Lead of the opposing team, who under these
circumstances is entitled to reset the mat. No one shall be permitted
to challenge the legality of the origional position of the Jack after
the first to play has delivered the first Bowl
29. Jack improperly delivered
Should
the Jack in any end be improperly delivered, or if it ends its original
course in the ditch or outside boundary of the rink, or less than 23m
in a straight line of play from the mat line, it shall be returned and
the opposing player shall deliver the Jack, ensuring that it is
centred, but shall not play first.
The Jack shall be returned
if it is improperly delivered, but the right of the player first
delivering the Jack in that end, to play the first Bowl in that end
shall not be affected.
No one shall be permitted to challenge
the legality of the original position of the Jack after the first to
play has delivered the first Bowl.
30. Variations to Laws 23, 25, 28 and 29
Notwithstanding
anything contained in Laws 23, 25, 28 and 29, any National Authority
may for domestic purposes, but not in any International Matches, World
Bowls Championships or Commonwealth Games, vary any of the distances
mentioned in these Laws.
31. "Live" Bowl
A
Bowl which, in its original course on the Green, comes to rest within
the boundaries of the rink, and not less than 14m, measured in a direct
line from the front centre of the mat line, shall be accounted as a
"Live" Bowl and shall be in play.
32. "Touchers"
A
Bowl which, in its original course on the green touches the Jack, even
though such a Bowl passes into the ditch within the boundaries of the
rink, shall be counted as a "live" Bowl and shall be called a
"toucher". If after having come to rest a Bowl falls over and touches
the Jack before the next succeeding Bowl is delivered, or if in the
case of the last Bowl of an end it falls and touches the Jack within
the period of 30 seconds invoked under Law 52, such a Bowl shall also
be a "toucher".
No Bowl shall be accounted a "toucher" by
playing on to, or by coming into contact with, the Jack while the Jack
is in the ditch. If a "toucher" in the ditch cannot be seen from the
mat its position shall be marked by a white or coloured indicator about
50mm broad and not more than 100mm in height placed upright on the top
or face of the bank and immediately in line with the place where the
"toucher" rests.
Movement of Bowls
33. Marking a "Toucher"
A
"toucher" shall be clearly marked with a chalk mark by a member of the
player's team or Marker in a singles game. If, in the opinion of either
Skip, or Opponent or Marker in Singles, a "toucher" or a wrongly
chalked Bowl comes to rest in such a position that the act of making a
chalk mark, or of erasing it, is likely to move the Bowl or to alter
the head, the Bowl shall not be marked or have its mark erased but
shall be "indicated" as a "toucher" or "non-toucher" as the case may
be. If a Bowl is not so marked or not so "indicated" before the
succeeding Bowl comes to rest it ceases to be a "toucher". If both
Skips or Opponents agree that any subsequent movement of the Bowl
eliminates the necessity for continuation of the "indicated" provision
the Bowl shall thereupon be marked or have a chalk mark erased as the
case may be. Care shall be taken to remove the "toucher" marks from all
Bowls before they are played, but should a player fail to do so, and
should the Bowl not become a "toucher" in the end in play, the marks
shall be removed by the opposing Skip or his deputy or Marker
immediately the Bowl comes to rest unless the Bowl is "indicated" as a
"non-toucher" in circumstances governed by earlier provisions of this
Law.
34. Movement of "Touchers"
A
"toucher" in play in the ditch may be moved by the impact of a Jack in
play or of another "toucher" in play, and also by the impact of a
"non-toucher" which remains in play after the impact, and any movement
of the "toucher" by such incidents shall be valid. However, should the
"non-toucher" enter the ditch before the next succeeding Bowl is
delivered, it shall be dead, and the "toucher" shall be deemed to have
been displaced by a dead Bowl and the provisions of Law 37(e) shall
apply.
35. Bowl Accounted "Dead"
(a) Without limiting the application of any other of these Laws, a Bowl
shall be accounted dead and removed from the rink if :
(i)
not being a "toucher" it comes to rest in the ditch or rebounds on to
the playing surface of the rink after contact with the bank or with the
Jack or a "toucher" in the ditch, or
(ii) after completing its
original course, or after being moved as a result of play, it comes to
rest wholly outside the boundaries of the playing surface of the rink,
or within 14m, measured in a direct line from the centre of the mat
line, or
(iii) its original course, passes beyond a side
boundary of the rink on a bias which would prevent its re-entering the
rink. (A Bowl is not rendered "dead" by a player carrying it whilst
inspecting the head.)
(b) Skips or the Opponents in Singles
shall agree on the question as to whether or not a Bowl is "dead". Any
member of either team may request a decision from the Skips, but no
member shall remove any Bowl prior to agreement by the Skips. Once
their attention has been drawn to the matter, the Skips by agreement
must make a decision. If they cannot reach agreement, the Umpire must
make an immediate decision.
36. Bowl Rebounding
Only "touchers" rebounding from the face of the bank to the ditch or
the rink shall remain in play.
37. Bowl Displacement
(a)
Displacement by rebounding "non-toucher" - Bowl displaced by a
"non-toucher" rebounding from the bank shall be restored as near as
possible to its former position, by a member of the opposing team or by
the Marker.
(b) Displacement by a participating player - if a
Bowl, while in motion or at rest on the green, or a "toucher" in the
ditch, be interfered with or displaced by one of the players, the
opposing Skip shall have the option of:
(i) restoring the Bowl as near as possible to its former position;
(ii) letting it remain where it rests;
(iii) declaring the Bowl "dead"
(iv) or declaring the end "dead".
(c) Displacement by a neutral object or neutral person (other than as
provided in Clause (d) hereof) :
(i)
of the Bowl in its original course - if such a Bowl be displaced within
the boundaries of the rink of play without having disturbed the head,
it shall be replayed. If it be displaced and has disturbed the head,
the Skip, or the Opponents in Singles, shall reach agreement on the
final position of the displaced Bowl and on the replacement of the
head, otherwise the end shall be "dead".
These provisions
shall also apply to a Bowl in its original course displaced outside the
boundaries of the rink of play provided such Bowl was running on a bias
which would have enabled it to re-enter the rink.
(ii) of a
Bowl at rest, or in motion as a result of play after being at rest - if
such a Bowl be displaced, the Skip or Opponents in Singles, shall come
to an agreement as to the position of the Bowl and the replacement of
any part of the head disturbed by the displaced Bowl, otherwise the end
shall be "dead".
(d) Displacement inadvertently produced - if
a Bowl be moved at the time of it bring marked or measured it shall be
restored to its former position by an opponent. if such displacement is
caused by a Marker or an Umpire, the Marker or Umpire shall replace the
Bowl.
(e) Displacement by dead Bowl - if a "toucher" in the
ditch be displaced by a "dead" Bowl from the rink of play, it shall be
restored to its former position by a player of the opposite team or by
the Marker.
(f) Displacement by a Bowl from an adjoining rink
- A Bowl or Jack at rest on the rink, if in danger of being moved by a
Bowl from an adjoining rink may be lifted by the Marker or any player
at the head to allow the neutral Bowl to pass, and then be replaced,
provided such action would not influence the outcome of the head so
moved.
Movement of Jack
39. A "live" Jack in the
Ditch
A
Jack moved by a Bowl in play into the front ditch within the boundaries
of the rink shall be deemed to be "live". It may be moved by the impact
of a "toucher" in play and also by the impact of a "non-toucher" which
remains in play after the impact, any movement of the Jack by such
incidents shall be valid. However, should the "non-toucher" enter the
ditch at any time after impact it shall be "dead" and the Jack shall be
deemed to be "displaced" by a "dead" Bowl and the provisions of Law 47
shall apply. If the Jack in the ditch cannot be seen from the mat its
position shall be marked by a "white" indicator about 50mm broad and
not more than 100mm in height, placed upright on the top or face of the
bank and immediately in line with the place where the Jack rests.
40. A Jack accounted "Dead"
Should
the Jack be driven by a Bowl in play so that it passes beyond the face
of the bank or comes to rest wholly beyond the boundary of the rink,
i.e. over the bank, or boundary, or into any opening or inequality of
any kind in the bank, or rebound to a distance of less than 20m in
direct line from the centre of the mat line to the Jack in its
rebounded position, it shall be accounted "dead".
41. "Dead" End
When
the Jack is "dead" the end shall be regarded as a "dead" end and shall
not be accounted as a played end even though all the Bowls in that end
may have been played. All "dead" ends shall be played anew in the same
direction unless both Skips or Opponents in Singles agree to play in
the opposite direction.
After a "dead" end situation the right to deliver the Jack shall always
return to the player who delivered the original Jack.
42. Playing to a boundary Jack
The
Jack, if driven to the side boundary of the rink and not wholly beyond
its limits, may be played to on either hand and, if necessary a Bowl
may pass outside the limits of the rink. A Bowl so played, which comes
to rest within the boundaries of the rink, shall not be accounted
"dead".
If the Jack be driven to the side boundary line and
comes to rest partly within the limits of the rink, a Bowl played
outside the limits of the rink and coming to rest entirely outside the
boundary line, even though it has made contact with the Jack, shall be
accounted "dead" and shall be removed to the bank by a member of the
player's team.
43. A Damaged Jack
In
the event of a Jack being damaged, the Umpire shall decide if another
Jack is necessary and, if so, the end shall be regarded as a "dead" end
and another Jack shall be substituted and the end shall be played anew.
44. A rebounding Jack
If the Jack is
driven against the face of the bank and rebounds on to the rink, or
after being played into the ditch, it be operated on by a "toucher", so
as to find its way on to the rink, it shall be played to in the same
manner as if it had never left the rink.
45. Jack displacement
(a) By a player
If
the Jack be diverted from its course while in motion on the green, or
displaced while at rest on the green, or in the ditch, by any one of
the players the opposing Skip shall have the option of:
(i) restoring the Jack to its former position;
(ii) allowing it to remain where it rests and playing the end to a
finish;
(iii) or declaring the end "dead".
(b) Inadvertently produced
If the Jack be moved at the time of measuring by a player it shall be
restored to its former position by an opponent.
46. Jack displaced by a non-player
(a)
If the Jack, whether in motion or at rest on the rink, or in the ditch,
be displaced by a Bowl from another rink, or by any object or
individual not a member of the team, the two Skips or the opponents in
a Singles game shall decide as to its former position, and if they are
unable to agree, the end shall be declared "dead".
(b) If the
Jack is displaced by a Marker or Umpire in the process of measuring or
in any other circumstances, the displaced Jack shall be restored as
near as possible by the Marker or Umpire to its former position of
which he shall be the sole judge.
47. Jack displaced by "non-toucher"
A
Jack displaced in the rink of play by a "non-toucher" rebounding from
the bank shall be restored, as near as possible, to its former position
by a player of the opposing team or by the Marker in the Singles game.
Should a Jack, however, after having been played into the ditch, be
displaced by a "dead Bowl" it shall be restored to its marked position
by a player of the opposing team or by the Marker.
The basis of the
Game of Bowls is Fours Play
48. Fours Play
(a) Designation of players
A
team shall consist of four players, named respectively, Lead, Second,
Third and Skip, according to the order in which they play, each playing
two Bowls.
(b) Order of Play
The Leads shall play
their two Bowls alternatively, and so on, each pair of players in
succession to the end. No one shall play until his opponents' Bowl
shall have come to rest. Except under circumstances provided for in Law
62, the order of play shall not be changed after the first end has been
played, under penalty of disqualification, such penalty involving the
forfeiture of the match or game to the opposing team.
49. Possession of the rink
Possession of the rink shall belong to the team whose
Bowl is being played.
The players in possession of the rink for the time being, shall not be
interfered with, annoyed, or have their attention distracted in any way
by their opponents.
As soon as each Bowl shall have come to
rest, possession of the rink shall be transferred to the other team,
time being allowed for marking a "toucher".
Should a player
infringe the Law of rink possession the Umpire shall, after having
given a warning, have the Bowl declared dead. If the Bowl has disturbed
the head, the opponent shall have the option of
(a) resetting the head,
(b) leaving the head as altered, or
(c) declaring the end "dead".
50. Position of Players
Players
of each team not in the act of playing or controlling play shall stand
behind the Jack and away from the head or 1m behind the mat. As soon as
the Bowl is delivered, the Skip or player directing, if in front of the
Jack shall retire behind it.
In cases where there is no
"stand-off' room at the end of the rink. players shall stand well clear
of the object Bowl or Jack, whilst a Bowl is being delivered.
51. Players and their duties
(a) The Skip
The Skip shall have sole charge of his team, and his instructions shall
be observed by his players.
With the opposing Skip he shall decide all disputed points, and when
both agree their decision shall be final.
If
both Skips cannot agree, the point in dispute shall be referred to, and
considered by, an Umpire whose decision shall be final.
A Skip
may at any time delegate his powers and any of his duties to other
members of his team provided that such delegation is notified to the
opposing Skip.
(b) The Third
The Third player may have deputed to him the duty of measuring any and
all disputed shots.
(c) The Second
The
Second player shall keep a record of all shots scored for and against
his team and shall at all times retain possession of the score card
whilst play is in progress. He shall see that the names of all players
are entered on the score card; shall compare his record of the game
with that of the opposing Second player as each end is declared, and at
the close of the game shall hand his score card to his Skip.
(d) The Lead
The
Lead shall place the mat, and shall deliver the Jack ensuring that the
Jack is properly centred before playing his first Bowl.
(e) in
addition to the duties specified in the preceding clauses, any player
may undertake such duties as may be assigned to him by the Skip in
Clause 51 (a) hereof.
Result of End
52. "The Shot"
A
Shot or Shots shall be adjudged by the Bowl or Bowls nearer to the Jack
than any other Bowl played by the opposing player or players.
When the last Bowl has come to rest, 30 seconds shall elapse, if either
team desires, before the shots are counted.
Neither
Jack nor Bowls shall be moved until each Skip has agreed to the number
of shots, except in circumstances where a Bowl has to be moved to allow
the measuring of another Bowl.
53. Measuring conditions to be observed
No measuring shall be allowed until the end has been completed.
All
measurements shall be made to the nearest point of each object. If a
Bowl requiring to be measured is resting on another Bowl which prevents
its measurement, the best available means shall be taken to secure its
position, whereupon the other Bowl shall be removed. The same course
shall be followed where more than two Bowls are involved, or where, in
the course of measuring, a single Bowl is in danger of falling or
otherwise changing its position. When it is necessary to measure to a
Bowl or Jack in the ditch, and another Bowl or Jack on the green,
whenever possible, the measurement shall be made with a flexible
measure.
54. "Tie" - No shot
When at
the conclusion of play in any end the nearest Bowl of each team is
touching the Jack, or is deemed to be equidistant from the Jack, or no
live Bowls remain there shall be no score recorded.
The end shall be declared "tied" and shall be counted a played end.
After a "tied end" situation, the right to deliver the Jack shall
always return to the player who delivered the origional Jack.
55.
Nothing in these Laws shall be deemed to make it mandatory for the last
player to play his last Bowl in any end, but he shall declare to his
Opponent or opposing Skip his intention to refrain from playing it
before the commencement of determining the result of the end and this
declaration shall be irrevocable.
Game Decisions
56. Games played on
one occasion
(a)
In the case of a single game or a team game or a side game played on
one occasion, or at any stage of an eliminating competition, the
victory decision shall be awarded to the player, team. or side of
players producing at the end of the game, the higher total score of
shots, or in the case of a "game of winning ends", a majority of
winning ends, or the winning number of sets.
(b) In the case
of competitions and/or matches played on a time basis, it shall be the
responsibility of the Controlling Body to ensure that Rules are in
existence to cover all such competitions and/or matches. The
Controlling Body must ensure that Rules have been brought to the
attention of clubs and competitors who are liable to take part in such
a match or competition.
57. Tournament games and games in a series
The Controlling Body shall set the conditions of play for such games.
58. Playing to a finish and possible drawn games
If
in an eliminating competition, consisting of a stated or agreed upon
number of ends, it be found, when all ends have been played, that the
scores are equal, an extra end or ends shall be played until the
decision has been reached.
The Captains or Managers or Skips
shall toss and the winner shall have the right to decide who shall play
first. The extra end shall be played from where the previous end was
completed, and the mat shall be placed in accordance with Law 23.
In
the case of more than one extra end being required, then the Captains
or Managers or Skips shall again toss, and the winner shall have the
right to decide who shall play first. In the case of an extra end being
declared "dead", the provisions of Law 22 (b) shall apply.
Defaults of Players in Fours Play
59. Absentee
players in any team or side
(a) In a single Fours game
For
a trophy, prize or other competitive award, where a club is represented
by only one Four, each member of such Four shall be a bona-fide member
of the club.
Unless all four players appear and are ready to
play at the end of the maximum waiting period of 30 minutes, or should
they introduce an ineligible player, then that team shall forfeit the
match to the opposing team.
(b) In a Side game
If
within a period of 30 minutes from the time fixed for the game, a
single player is absent from one or more teams in a side game, whether
in a friendly club match or a match for a trophy, prize or other award,
the game shall proceed, but in the defaulting team, the number of Bowls
shall be made up by the Lead and Second players playing three Bowls
each, but one-fourth of the total shots scored by each team comprising
of three men shall be deducted from their score at the end of the game.
Fractions shall be taken into account.
60. Play Irregularities
(a) Playing out of turn
When
a player has played before his turn, the opposing Skip shall have the
right to stop the Bowl, and it shall be returned to be played in the
proper sequence. If the Bowl so played has come to rest and remains
"live" and has not disturbed the head, the opponent shall play two
successive Bowls to restore the correct sequence. In the event of the
Bowl so played having disturbed the head, the opposing skip shall have
the following options:
(i) Allow the disturbed head to remain; and have two Bowls played in
succession to restore the proper sequence of play,
or
(ii) replace the herd to its former position, return the Bowl so
played, and restore the proper sequence of play, or
(iii) declare the end "dead".
(b) Playing the wrong bowl
A Bowl played by mistake shall be replaced by the player's own Bowl.
(c) Changing Bowls
A
player shall not be allowed to change his Bowls during the course of
the game, or in a resumed game, unless they be objected to, as provided
in Law 9(d), or when a Bowl has been so damaged in the course of play
as, in the opinion of the Umpire, to render the Bowl (or Bowls) unfit
for play.
(d) Omitting to play
(i) If the result of an
end has been agreed upon, or the head has been touched in the agreed
process of determining the result, then a player who forfeits or has
omitted to play a Bowl, shall forfeit the right to play it.
(ii)
A player who has neglected to play a Bowl in the proper sequence shall
forfeit the right to play such Bowl, if a Bowl has been played by each
team before such mistake was discovered.
61. Play Interruptions
(a) Game Stoppages
When
a game of any kind is stopped, either by mutual arrangement by the
Controlling Body or by the Umpire, after appeal to him on account of
darkness or the conditions of the weather, or any other valid reason,
it shall be resumed with the scores as they were when the game stopped.
An end commenced, but not completed, shall be declared dead.
(b) Substitutes in a resumed game
If
in a resumed game any one of the four original players be not
available, one substitute shall be permitted as stated in Law 62.
Players, however, shall not be transferred from one team to another.
Influences affecting play
62. Leaving the
Green
If
during the course of a Side, Fours, Triples or Pairs game a player has
to leave the green owing to illness, or other reasonable cause, his
place shall be filled by a substitute, if in the opinion of both Skips
(or failing agreement by them, then in the opinion of the Controlling
Body) such substitution is necessary. Should the player affected be a
Skip, his duties and position in a Fours game shall be assumed by the
Third player, and the substitute shall play either as Lead, Second or
Third. In the case of Triples the substitute may play as Lead or Second
but not as Skip and in the case of Pairs the substitute shall play as
Lead only. Such substitute shall be a member or the club to which the
team belongs. In domestic play National Authorities may decide the
position of any substitute.
If during the course of a singles
game, a player has to leave the green owing to illness, or a reasonable
cause, the provision of Law 61(a) shall be observed.
No player
shall be allowed to delay the play by leaving the rink or team, unless
with the consent of his opponent, and then for only a period not
exceeding 10 minutes. Contravention of this Law shall entitle the
Opponent or opposing team to claim the match or game.
63. Objects on the Green
Under
no circumstances, other than is provided in Laws 5, 28, 32 and 39,
shall any extraneous object to assist the player be placed on the
green, or on the bank, or on the Jack, or on the Bowl or elsewhere.
64. Unforeseen incidents
If
during the course of play, the position of the Jack or Bowls be
disturbed by wind, storm or any neutral object the end shall be
declared "dead", unless the Skips are agreed to the replacement of Jack
or Bowls.
Domestic Arrangements
65. Powers to make
Regulations
In
addition to any matters specifically mentioned in these Laws, National
Authorities may, in circumstances dictated by climate or other local
conditions, make such other regulations as are deemed necessary and
desirable, but such regulations must be submitted to the W.B.B.,
W.I.B.C. or I.W.B.B. as appropriate for approval. For this purpose the
W.B.B., W.I.B.C. and/or I.W.B.B. shall appoint a Committee to be known
as the "Laws Committee" with powers to grant approval or otherwise to
any proposal, such decision being valid until the proposal is submitted
to the W.B.B., W.I.B.C. or I.W.B.B. as appropriate for a final
decision.
66. Local arrangements
Constituent
clubs of National Authorities shall also in making their domestic
arrangements make such regulations as are deemed necessary to govern
their club competitions, but such regulations shall comply with the
Laws of the Game and be approved by the Council of their National
Authority and shall be displayed at each club.
67. National Visiting Teams or Sides
No
team or side of Bowlers visiting overseas or the British Isles shall be
recognised by the W.B.B., W.I.B.C.or I.W.B.B. unless it first be
sanctioned and recommended by the National Authority to which the
members are affiliated.
68. Contracting out
No
club or club management committee or any individual shall have the
right or power to contract out of any of the Laws of the Game as laid
down by the W.B.B., W.I.B.C.or I.W.B.B.
Regulating Singles, Pairs and Triples Games
69. The
foregoing Laws regarding fours, where applicable, shall also apply to
Singles, Pairs and Triples games.
The Manager
70.
The
Manager of a team or side, or in his absence, his delegated deputy, may
give advice from beyond the limits of the rink of play.
Duties of Marker
71.
(a) In the absence of the Umpire the marker shall control the game in
accordance with the Laws of the Game. He shall, before play commences,
examine all Bowls for the imprint of the I.B.B / W.B.B. Stamp, or that
of its National Authority, such imprint to be clearly visible, and
shall ascertain by measurement the width of the rink of play.
(b) He shall centre the Jack and shall place a full length Jack 2m from
the ditch in compliance with Law 28.
(c) He shall ensure that the Jack is not less than 23m from the mat
line after it has been centered.
(d) He shall stand at one side of the rink, and to the rear of the
Jack.
(e)
He shall answer any specific questions relating to the existing state
of the head while the player is in possession of the rink and, when
requested, clearly indicate the shot if possible.
(f) He shall
mark all "touchers" immediately they come to rest, and remove the chalk
marks from "non-touchers". With the agreement of both Opponents he
shall remove all "dead" Bowls from the green and the ditch. He shall
mark the position of the Jack and "touchers" which are in the ditch.
(See Laws 32 and 39).
(g) He shall not move, or cause to be
moved, either Jack or Bowls until each player has agreed to the number of shots.
(h)
He shall measure carefully all doubtful shots when requested by either
player. If unable to come to a decision satisfactory to the players, he
shall call in an Umpire. If an official Umpire has not been appointed,
the Marker shall select one. The decision of the Umpire shall be final.
(i) He shall enter the score at each end, and shall intimate to
the players the state of the game. When the game is finished, he shall
see that the score card, containing the names of the players, is signed
by the players, and is disposed of according to the rules of the
competition.
(j) He shall remove the mat from the previous end, as necessary.
Duties of Umpire
72. An
Umpire shall be appointed by the Controlling Body of the Association,
Club or Tournament Management Committee.
His duties shall be as follows:
(a)
He shall examine all Bowls for the imprint of the I.B.B./W.B.B. Stamp,
or that of its National Authority, and ascertain by measurement the
width of the rinks of play.
(b) He shall measure any shot or
shots in dispute, and for this purpose shall use a suitable measure.
His decision shall be final.
(c) He shall decide all questions as to the distance of the mat from
the ditch and the Jack from the mat line.
(d) He shall decide as to whether or not Jack and / or Bowls are in
play.
(e) He shall enforce the Laws of the Game.
(f)
His decision shall be final in respect of any breach of a Law, except
that, upon questions relating to the meaning or interpretation of any
Law there shall be a right of appeal to the Controlling Body.
(g)
The World Indoor Bowls Council, World Indoor Bowls Council Ladies
Section and member governing bodies reserve the right to amend the
duties of an Umpire to suit special circumstances.
Spectators
73.
(a) Persons not engaged in the game shall be situated clear of and
beyond the limits of the rink of play, and clear of the verges. They
shall neither by word nor act disturb or advise the players.
(b)
Betting or Gambling in connection with any game or games shall not be
permitted or engaged in within the grounds of any constituent club.
Disabled Support
74.
Players with any physical disability, or visual impairment, may use
such appropriate support and accept such assistance as necessary to
enable them to participate in the game of Bowls.
Professional Bowler
All players are eligible for selection for Commonwealth Games except those whose principal source of Income is derived from playing the Game of Bowls
Stamping of Bowls
Manufacturers
will be entitled to use the registered I.B.B / W.B.B. Stamp, to
facilitate the imprint between the inner and outer rings of Bowls.
Imprints on running surfaces should be avoided wherever possible.
Stamp Details
WBB - World Bowls Board
A - Denotes code letter of Manufacturer / Tester
Numerals - Denotes year of expiry
R - Denotes that the Stamp is a registered trade mark
In
1993 a new W.B.B. Stamp was introduced, so that since 1st January 1994
all new and retested Bowls have been stamped with the W.B.B. stamp.
The I.B.B. stamp on a Bowl will remain valid until the existing stamp
expires.
Equivalent Measurements
In
connection with the manufacture of Bowls, there is no objection to
manufacturers using imperial equivalents in lieu of the present
figures, always provided that Law 9 of the Board's Laws is complied
with. Furthermore, there is no objection to manufacturers indicating
various sizes of Bowls by numerals, and the manufacturers will be
entitled to use the following table if they so desire.
|
Metric sizes 116 117 121 122 124 125 127 129 131 |
00 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 |
4 9/16 4 5/8 4 3/4 4 13/16 4 7/8 4 15/16 5 5 1/16 5 1/8 |
English Variations to Joint Laws of the Game
Law 2
EIBA and EWIBA
Clubs
already affiliated to the EIBA and EWIBA are permitted to use greens
with a playing surface of not less than 32m in length.
Law 5
EBA and EIBA
The
corner pegs may be clearly marked with a thin black line of not more
than 2mm running vertically down the centre of the peg.
EIBA and EWIBA
In addition, see National Championship Rule 11 Venues (1) [EIBA] or
National Championship Rule 10 [EWIBA]
Law 6(b)
EBA and EWBA
For play in the National Championships and National Competitions, the
minimum width of a rink may be 4.8 metres.
Law 9(b)
EBA, EIBA and EWBA
Composition
bowls must bear a legible stamp for 1985 or later and can continue to
be used without stamping until such time as the stamp becomes
illegible. EWIBA For all National Competition play including mixed
competitions, bowls must bear a legible hexagonal stamp for 1996 or
later and can continue to be used without stamping until such time as
the stamp becomes illegible.
Law 28
EBA and EWBA
If
a mark has not been placed on the green, the jack shall be moved so
that the front edge of the jack is 2 metres from the front ditch, and
centred.
A Bowl shall not be accounted as outside the line unless it be entirely clear of it. This shall be ascertained by looking perpendicularly down upon the Bowl or by placing a square on the green or by use of a string, mirror or other approved optical device.
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