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CONDITIONS OF PLAY

1] TRIAL ENDS
2] VISITORS JACK
3] PLAYING FIRST
4] PLACING THE DELIVERY MAT
5] PLACING THE JACK
6] STANCE ON THE DELIVERY MAT
7] FOOT FAULTING
8] FENDER DISPLACEMENT
9] PLACEMENT OR DISPLACEMENT OF BLOCK

THE BOWLS

10] LIVE BOWLS
11] MARKING A TOUCHER
12] ACTION OF TOUCHERS
13] DEAD BOWLS
14] LINE DECISIONS
15] BOWL DISPLACEMENT
16] BOWL DRIVEN OVER FENDER

THE JACK

17] LIVE JACK
18] DEAD JACK
19] DEAD END PENALTY
20] REBOUNDING JACK
21] JACK DRIVEN OVER FENDER
22] JACK DISPLACEMENT
23] POSSESSION OF THE RINK MAT
24] POSITION OF PLAYERS
 
 

PLAY INFRINGEMENTS

25] FOLLOWING A BOWL UP THE MAT
26] PLAYING BEFORE LAST BOWL COMES TO REST
27] PLAYING OUT OF TURN
28] PLAYING THE WRONG BOWL
29] CHANGING BOWLS
30] LEAVING THE RINK
31] ABSENTEE PLAYERS
32] PLAYING WITH A PLAYER MISSING
33] OBJECTS ON THE RINK MAT
34] CHANGING THE ORDER OF PLAY

RESULTS OF AN END

35] THE SHOT OR SHOTS
36] MEASURING
37] LIVE END : NO SCORE
38] EXTRA ENDS
39] GAME DECISIONS

SPECTATORS & DISABLED PLAYERS

40] SPECTATORS
41] DISABLED PLAYERS

EQUIPMENT

42] MATCH UMPIRES AND EQUIPMENT
43] RINK MAT
44] BOWLS
45] JACK

CONDITIONS OF THE GAME46] FORM AND DURATION
47] PLAY ARRANGEMENTS
48] SCORECARDS
 

SINGLES AND PAIRS COMPETITIONS, ADDITIONAL RULES

OYSTER CUP TRIPLES, ADDITIONAL RULES

PLAYING IN 4's (RINKS)

PLAYERS AND THEIR DUTIES

DUTIES OF MARKERS AND UMPIRES

FORCING SHOTS

CONDUCT

SINGLES PLAYERS

CASH or other AWARDS

FIXTURE LIST DRAW

MAT DIAGRAM

MAT MEASUREMENTS

FINAL WORD
 
 
 
 

RULES

CONDITIONS OF PLAY

1] TRIAL ENDS

Trial ends shall be at the discretion of the controlling body.
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2] VISITORS JACK

There will be no initial tossing of a coin. The visiting team will be given the choice, and may therefore opt to play first or second. It is not permissable to "give the jack away" at any other time during a match.
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3] PLAYING FIRST

a) In all subsequent ends to the first, the winner of the preceding end shall play first.

b) In the event of a tied end ( no score ) or a dead end, the player who played first in that end shall again play first.
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4] PLACING THE DELIVERY MAT

a) At the beginning of an end the player who is to play first shall place the delivery mat within the delivery lines, with the shorter side in contact with the fender.

b) The delivery mat must not be moved until the end is complete. If accidentally moved it must be returned to its proper position by the following player.

c) The last player to bowl in that end shall remove the delivery mat clear of the rink mat.
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5] PLACING THE JACK

a) The Marker in a singles game shall place the jack on the jack line, where the player who is to play first requires it.

b) The Skip whose side it is to play first shall place the jack on the jack line at any length he/she chooses.

c) The jack may be placed on the jack line in any position, and it may overhang the end of the jack line providing it is in contact with the jack line.
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6] STANCE ON THE DELIVERY MAT

A player, at the moment of delivering his/her bowl shall have one foot entirely within the confines of the delivery mat. The foot must either be in contact with or directly above the delivery mat and the other foot must be inside the delivery lines.

Also no part of the body shall be in direct contact with the rink outside of the delivery lines. Failure to observe this Law constitutes Foot Faulting.
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7] FOOT FAULTING

a) Should a player in a Singles game foot fault the Marker shall stop the bowl and remove it clear of the rink.

b) The opposing player who is in charge of the head, shall stop and remove the offending bowl.

Note : In Pairs, Triples and Fours, it is the duty of the players who are at the delivery end to call foot faults. In Singles only the players involved and the Umpire may call foot faults.
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8] FENDER DISPLACEMENT

Should the fender become displaced by a non-toucher entering the ditch:...................

a) In a Singles game, the Marker will replace the fender and restore the jack and any touchers, which may have been at rest in the ditch, to their original marked positions.

b) The player who is in charge of the head shall be responsible for replacing the fender and restoring the jack and any touchers, which may have been at rest in the ditch, to their original positions.

Should the fender be displaced by a toucher or the jack entering the ditch and where such bowl/s or the jack touch the floor surface within the confines of the displaced fender, the following rules apply :..........

i) In a Singles game, the Marker will replace the fender and place the jack and/or bowl/s in the position/s at which it/they contacted the fender or left the rink mat, also restoring the jack and/or any touchers, which may have been at rest in the ditch, to their original marked positions.

ii) The player who is in charge of the head for the opposing side shall be responsible for replacing the fender and placing the jack and/or bowl/s in the position/s at which it/they contacted the fender or left the rink mat, also restoring the jack and/or any touchers, that may have been at rest in the ditch, to their original positions.
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9] PLACEMENT OR DISPLACEMENT OF BLOCK

At the beginning of a game the block must be placed centrally across the rink mat, on the block line, by the team who have control of the rink. (Or the Marker in a Singles game)
If the block is not centrally positioned at the start of an end, or after being re-sited following displacement by a bowl in play, or some other source of interference, and play commences with it in this mis-aligned position, it shall remain in this position until either the end is completed or it is again displaced by a bowl in play, or some other source of interference. A player may not reposition the block for any other reason.
When the block is disturbed for whatever reason it shall be replaced by the team who have control of the rink mat. (Or the Marker in a Singles game)
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THE BOWLS

10] LIVE BOWLS

A Live Bowl is :-

a) A bowl which in its original course comes to rest wholly within the live area, even though it overhangs the edge of the rink mat.

b) A bowl which in its original course breaks the ditch line but does not interfere with any toucher or the jack in the ditch, or touch the fender or makes contact with the floor or the block, and comes to rest wholly within the live area, even though it overhangs the edge of the rink mat.

c) A bowl which in its original course on the rink mat touches the jack, either directly or by deflection off of another bowl or bowls, even though it settles in the ditch or makes contact with the fender after it has touched the jack. Such a bowl shall be live and be called a toucher, and its position in the ditch should be suitably marked (if marking the mat use stick (NOT SPRAY) chalk), so that it may be accurately replaced in the event of it being illegally disturbed.
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11] MARKING A TOUCHER

a) A toucher shall be clearly marked with chalk by a member of the players side before the next bowl delivered comes to rest. If a bowl is not so marked before the succeeding bowl comes to rest it will cease to be a toucher, unless, in the opinion of either Skip or the player in charge of the head that to attempt to chalk such a bowl could cause it to fall or move, it should not be chalked but it must be nominated as a toucher and it should then be chalked if the danger ceases during the course of play.

b)The Marker in a Singles game should chalk all touchers and should indicate to the players any bowl which is a toucher that he/she is unable to mark.

c) Should a bowl be played which has not had the chalk removed, the Skip, the player in charge of the head, or the Marker shall remove the mark as soon as the bowl has come to rest, or if there is a danger that such a bowl should fall and alter the head or its position, it should be indicated and the mark removed if the position is changed.

d) All toucher marks should be removed before any bowl is played.

e) When marking touchers, the marks used can be any shape and must, in competition or league games, be applied ONLY by spray chalk (Stick chalk may be used in friendlies, or roll-ups)
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12] ACTION OF TOUCHERS

a) Touchers may act upon the jack or other touchers in the ditch. The jack and any such touchers moved shall remain in their new positions.

b)Touchers rebounding from the jack or the fender or from other touchers in the ditch into the live area, shall remain in play where they have come to rest.
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13] DEAD BOWLS

A Bowl is Dead and must be removed from the rink mat :-

a) If it is delivered from a foot fault position.

b) If it strikes the block or passes over it. If there is a dispute over whether or not the bowl in play touched the block during its course of travel to the head, and the Skips fail to agree, even after the head has been altered, then even if this is the last end it must be played again and in the same direction.

c) If it does not travel beyond the dead area.

d) If it finishes in the ditch without touching the jack.

e)If it touches or rebounds from the fender or contacts a toucher or the jack which is in the ditch.

f) If any portion of the bowl intersects any part of the dead line.

g) When it comes to rest any portion of it intersects any part of the ditch line, unless it is a toucher.

h) If it makes contact with the floor or leaves the rink mat. ( Except as in Fender Displacement, Rule 8)
Note: The underlay is part of the playing surface.

i) If it is carried beyond the dead line, by the player who is in possession of the rink mat.
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14] LINE DECISIONS

All line decisions must be dealt with before the next bowl is played. Failure to comply with this rule will render such a bowl LIVE.
( A square should be used where necessary )
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15] BOWL DISPLACEMENT

a) Displacement by a NON-TOUCHER :-

If a head is disturbed by :-

1) A bowl delivered from a foot fault position,

2) A bowl which strikes or contacts the block,

3) A bowl which rebounds from a toucher which is in the ditch,

4) A bowl deflected by the fender,

5) A bowl or jack in the ditch which is moved by a non-toucher,

it shall be restored as near as possible to its original position by the opposing Skip, or by the opposing player who is in charge of the head, and the end completed.

b) Displacement by a PARTICIPATING PLAYER :-
If a bowl whilst in motion or at rest on the rink mat, or if a toucher in the ditch, be interfered with or displaced by one of the players, the opposing Skip shall have the option of :-

1) Restoring the bowl as near as possible to its original position.

2) Letting it remain in its new position.

3) Declaring the bowl dead and having it removed from the rink mat.

4) Playing the end again, and it must be in the same direction.

c) Displacement by a NON-PLAYER :-

If a bowl whilst in motion or at rest on the rink mat, or a toucher in the ditch, be interfered with or displaced by any person not playing, or by a jack or bowl from another rink mat, or by any other object, the two Skips will come to an agreement regarding its original position. Should the Skips fail to agree, then the end shall be played again in the same direction.

d) Displacement by the MARKER :-

If a bowl is moved as it is being measured by the Marker, it shall be restored as near as possible to its original position by the Marker, subject to the agreement of both players. If the players cannot agree, then the end shall be played again in the same direction.

If a shot or shots have already been awarded, the player holding the shot/s will have the option of accepting this as the score for that end or playing the end again in the same direction.

e) Displacement by the UMPIRE :-

If the Umpire accidentally moves a bowl or bowls whilst measuring, he/she will replace it as near as possible to its original position before completing his/her decision.

HE/SHE WILL BE SOLE ARBITER IN THIS MATTER.
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16] BOWL DRIVEN OVER FENDER

If a bowl is delivered with such a force as to pass, or cause another bowl to pass, over the back or side of the fender, the opposing Skip shall have the option of :-

a) Claiming 3 shots and counting the end as played.

b) Counting the end as an end played and claiming the shots lying.

c) Completing the end.

d) Playing the end again as in a dead end.

e) If a bowl and the jack are driven over the back or side of the fender at the same time, the rule concerning the jack (Rule 21) will take precedence.
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THE JACK

17] LIVE JACK

a) A jack is live and may be played by a live bowl if the jack is within the live area, or if any portion of it is within the live area when it is intersecting the ditch line. If any portion of the jack is in the live area when it is intersecting the ditch line, it can be played by a live bowl, and this bowl would be determined to be a toucher if it remains within the live area, this includes the ditch.

This also means that any live bowl which in its original course enters the ditch, ( does not touch the fender, or any bowl which is at rest within the ditch ) and touches any part of the jack which is intersecting the ditch line and has a portion in the live area, will be determined a toucher and should be chalked and its position marked should it come to rest in the ditch.

b) If a jack is driven into the ditch, its position must be suitably marked (if marking the mat use stick (NOT SPRAY) chalk), so that it can be accurately replaced in the event of it being illegally disturbed, it shall not be moved except by a toucher.
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18] DEAD JACK

The Jack is Dead if :-

a) Any portion of it comes into direct contact with the floor or any other non-playing surface other than the fender. Note : The underlay is part of the playing surface.

b) It is driven by a bowl in play beyond the boundary of the rink mat, i.e.; over the fender, off the side, or over the dead line.

c) After rebounding it comes to rest either in the dead area or with any part of it intersecting the dead line.

d) If the jack is knocked to the edge of the mat and falls off during subsequent play, without the action of another bowl hitting it, the end will be declared dead and will be replayed from the same direction.
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19] DEAD END PENALTY

All games are limited to ONE dead end by each team, or player in a Singles game. Any subsequent dead ends will result in 2 shots being awarded to the opponent/s and the end will count as played. First dead ends, by either side, will be played again in the same direction, and all subsequent dead ends will be played from where that end finished. Score cards must be marked with a cross alongside the offending teams score to show dead ends.

Where a dead end occurs for the First Time, for Either Team, on the final end of a game, then that end must be replayed.

Second dead ends by either team on the final end will incur the same penalty as set out above.

However, on the final end, the non-offending Skip has the option of declining the shots awarded and playing the end again, in the same direction.
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20] REBOUNDING JACK

Should the jack be driven against the fender and rebound onto the live area, or should it rebound from a toucher in the ditch onto the live area, or after being played into the ditch it be moved by a toucher so as to find its way onto the live area, it shall be played to in the same manner as if it never left the live area.
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21] JACK DRIVEN OVER FENDER

If the jack is driven over the back or sides of the fender by a player, the opposing Skip shall have the option of :-

a) Claiming 3 shots and counting the end as played.

b) Playing the end again as in a dead end.
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22] JACK DISPLACEMENT

a) Displacement by a Non toucher:-

A jack disturbed by a bowl which :-

1) has been delivered from a foot fault position,

2) strikes or touches the block,

3) being a non-toucher rebounds from the fender,

4) being a non-toucher contacts it in the ditch,

shall be restored as near as possible to its original position by the opposing Skip or player in charge of the head.

b) Displacement by a PARTICIPATING PLAYER :-

If the jack which is in motion or at rest on the rink mat be interfered with by a player, the opposing Skip shall have the option of :-

1) Restoring the jack as near as possible to its original position.

2) Letting it remain where it rests.

3) Playing the end again in the same direction.

c) Displacement by a NON-PLAYER :-

If the jack whilst in motion or at rest on the rink mat, be interfered with, displaced or moved by a non-player, or by a jack or bowl from another rink mat, or by any other object, the Skips shall come to an agreement regarding its original position and the jack will be restored. Should they fail to agree, then the end will be played again and it must be in the same direction.

d) Displacement by the MARKER :-

If the jack is moved by the Marker whilst measuring it will be replaced as near as possible to its original position, and both players will agree its position. If they do not agree then the end will be replayed in the same direction. If a shot or shots have already been agreed, that player shall have the right to accept that score, and the end will count as played.

e) Displacement by a PLAYER MEASURING :-

Should a player in the act of measuring accidentally move the jack, the opposing player who agrees the shots shall :-

1) Replace the jack as near as possible to its original position.

2) Agree the shot or shots already claimed.

3) Agree or accept the shot or shots already taken out.

4) Play the end again from the same direction.

f) Displacement by the UMPIRE :-

Should the Umpire accidentally move the jack whilst in the act of measuring, he/she will replace it in its original position before completing his/her decision.

HE/SHE WILL BE THE SOLE ARBITER of the position, and HIS/HER DECISION SHALL BE BINDING.
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23] POSSESSION OF THE RINK MAT

a) Possession of the rink mat shall belong to the side whose bowl is being played.

b) The players in possession of the rink mat shall not be interfered with, annoyed, barracked, or have their attention distracted by their opponents.

c) As soon as each bowl has come to rest, possession of the rink mat shall be transferred to the other side, time being allowed for marking a toucher, removing dead bowls or making line decisions.
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24] POSITION OF PLAYERS

Players not in the act of playing or controlling play must position themselves clear of the rink mat and be (where practicable) behind the fender.    
(See also Rule 41d)
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PLAY INFRINGEMENTS

25] FOLLOWING THE BOWL UP THE RINK MAT

No player shall follow their bowl up to the head on the rink mat, or leave the rink mat and follow it up the side.

Any player who infringes this Law must be warned as soon as they cross the nearest dead line, and on the second offence the opposing Skip can have the bowl stopped and removed from the rink mat, or have the end played again, but it must be in the same direction.
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26] PLAYING BEFORE THE LAST BOWL HAS COME TO REST

a) A bowl played before the last bowl has come to rest must be stopped and removed from the rink mat.

b] Any such bowl played, that disturbs the head or makes contact with any bowl or the jack ;...... the opponent may leave the head as altered or declare it void ...... it must be replayed in the same direction.
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27] PLAYING OUT OF TURN

a) If a player plays before their turn the opposing Skip shall have the right to stop the bowl and cause it to be played again in the proper order.

b) If a bowl so played has moved the jack or altered the head, the opposing Skip shall have the option of allowing the head to remain as it is or to declare it void. If the head is declared void it must be replayed in the same direction.

c) If the head is allowed to remain in its new position, the other players will follow in the new order of play for that end.
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28] PLAYING THE WRONG BOWL

A bowl played by mistake shall be replaced by the players own bowl.
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29] CHANGING BOWLS

No player shall change their bowls during a game unless they become damaged.
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30] LEAVING THE RINK

a) No player will leave the rink whilst a game is in progress without first consulting their opposite number, and then for a period not exceeding 10 minutes.

b) If during a team game a player is forced to leave through illness or other just cause, the game will continue with the missing player classed as the Second. They may return later if both Skips agree.
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31] ABSENTEE PLAYERS

a) If a player is absent from a side at the time laid down for the commencement of the game, a wait of 10 minutes may be allowed.

b) If trial ends are to be played, they will take place, the missing player will forfeit his or her right to trial ends.

c) If the missing player arrives before the trial ends are completed they will be allowed to play, only the trial ends will be forfeited.

d) If the missing player has not arrived by the expiry of the time allowed, a Singles or Pairs game will be awarded to the opponents.

e) A Triples or 4's game will commence with the missing player being considered as the Second and a definite order of play will be maintained. It shall be : Lead, Lead, Second : Lead, Lead, Second.

f) If the missing player arrives after the delivery mat has been placed for the first end, they will not be allowed to play.

g) One team is complete with 6 players, but only 3 of the other team are present 10 minutes after the match is due to start (and trial ends have been played as per paragraphs b and c above). The team with 3 players shall concede one game and 2 points, and play the other game. The remaining points shall be awarded for the played game as follows:-
2 points for a Win, 1 point each for a Draw
The 2 bonus points will only be given for one team having been awarded the conceded game and also winning the played game.
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32] PLAYING WITH A PLAYER MISSING

There will be no penalty or extra bowls played by the side with a player missing.
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33] OBJECTS ON THE RINK MAT

Under no circumstances shall any object, to assist any player or influence play, be placed on the rink mat, fender, jack, bowl or elsewhere. the only exception to this Rule can be found under Disabled Bowlers Rule 41.
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34] CHANGING ORDER OF PLAY

Players may change their order of play at the completion of any end.
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RESULT OF AN END

35] THE SHOT OR SHOTS

a) A shot or shots shall be adjudged by the bowl or bowls nearer the jack than the nearest bowl played by the opposite side.

b) When the last bowl of an end has come to rest, 30 seconds shall elapse if either side requests it, during that time no bowls shall be touched, chalked up, measured or interfered with. The request must be made as soon as the last bowl has come to rest. No player may walk in the live area during that time.

c) Neither the jack nor the bowls must be moved until both sides agree the result, except where a bowl or bowls have to be removed to allow another to be measured. Only the player conceding the shot/s may remove the bowls from the rink mat. If a player removes a bowl/s before agreement has been reached, a penalty of one shot per bowl removed may be claimed by the opposing team.

d) No measuring shall be allowed until after the last bowl, of an end, has come to rest.

e) When the last bowl has come to rest at the completion of an end, only one player from each team shall be allowed on the mat for the purpose of deciding the shot/s scored.

f) It shall not be deemed mandatory for the last player to play their last bowl in any end, but they should make their intentions known to the opposing side, before commencement of determination of the result of an end. Note : Once they have so declared, that bowl may not be played.
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36] MEASURING

a) All measuring must be done with callipers, flexible measure or other approved equipment.

b) All measuring shall be to the nearest point of both objects.

c) If a bowl requiring to be measured is resting on another bowl the best means available shall be taken to secure its position, whereupon the other bowl shall be removed ..... the same applies if more than one bowl is involved.

It is recommended that wedges are used for this purpose, the use of the hand or fingers for this purpose is prohibited.

d) The same applies if a bowl not so resting is in danger of falling before measuring is complete, or if the jack is in a position that it may be moved whilst it is being measured the best means available shall be taken to secure its position, prior to the measure being made.

e) The placing of the hand or finger on the jack or any bowl to be measured constitutes disturbance, and the opposing side shall claim the shot or shots, or refuse to acknowledge the shot or shots in dispute.

f) Measuring with hand, foot, mat or any other object other than the recognised measure is prohibited.
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37] LIVE END, NO SCORE

When at the conclusion of an end the nearest bowls of each side are touching the jack, or the two nearest opposing bowls are of an equal distance from the jack, or there are no bowls in the live area or touchers in the ditch, it shall be deemed to be a live end and no score. The end shall be recorded as a played end. The player who played first in the tied end shall again play first and it shall be played from where the last end finished.
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38] EXTRA END

a) In the event of a draw at the conclusion of a game where a winner must be determined, an extra end must be played.

b) The Skips in a team game, or the Leads in any other game shall toss for start, the winner shall have the right to play first or second.

c) The extra end shall be played from where the last end finished.

d) If at the conclusion of the extra end it is still a draw, a further extra end will be played, the toss will be made again, and the end played from where the last end finished.
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39] GAME DECISIONS

The winner is the player or team with the highest number of shots or points at the end of the game.
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SPECTATORS & DISABLED PLAYERS

40] SPECTATORS

Persons not engaged in the game shall be situated clear of and beyond the limits of the rink mat. They shall neither by word nor act disturb or advise the players. The officials shall have the power to take whatever action is necessary to control any spectators.
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41] DISABLED BOWLERS

It is EKSMBA policy to promote full participation for all, where venue anomalies allow. Team Captains, Skips and Umpires should permit variations to any rules/guidelines in order to allow a disabled person to play on as equal terms as possible, provided such variations do not constitute an unfair advantage.
Team captains should inform the umpire/opposing captain, in advance of the day of the match, if any members of their team have special requirements.

a. Bowling with a Chute
If a person has a recognised disability that prevents them from delivering a bowl by hand, a length of guttering should be made of lightweight material and must not exceed 2m in length and 13.5cm in diameter. The end of the guttering is to be placed within the delivery area. The player may be positioned off the mat.

b. Bowling from a Wheelchair
a) The rear and front wheels nearest the bowling hand should be placed according to the foot placement defined in rule 6. i.e. if bowling with the right hand, the right rear wheel should be on the delivery mat and the right front wheel within the delivery area.
b) The fender at the delivery end may be removed for the whole end if required.
c) Wheelchair bowlers are not required to wear bowling shoes.

c. Bowling from a Chair
If a disability prevents a player bowling from a standing position, that player may deliver the bowls whilst sitting in a chair. The rear and front legs nearest the bowling hand should be placed according to the foot placement defined in rule 6 i.e. if bowling with the right hand, the right rear leg should be on the delivery mat and the right front leg within the delivery area. An extra delivery mat may be used under the chair legs to protect the rink mat.

d. Visually Handicapped Players
Blind or partially sighted players may place a length of string in the centre of the rink mat running from end to end and receive advice with regard to their surroundings and as to the position of the bowls at the head.

e. Using a Walking Stick
If a person has a recognised disability that prevents them from delivering a bowl without the aid of a stick, then a stick with a wide flat base may be used. It should be placed within the delivery area.

f. Bowlers with Learning Disabilities
If a person has a recognised learning disability they may receive advice from a nominated assistant. This advice must be restricted to matters associated with match play, such as whose turn it is to bowl.

g. Duties of Players
Players should fulfil their duties as far as possible, but where a disability prevents them from doing so another member of the team or a helper nominated may be nominated to score or measure as required. Such nominations should be made before the game begins.

h. Helpers
a) If required a team of helpers may support disabled teams.
b) If a helper is required to assist a disabled player, this is permissible provided they do not actually assist in the delivery of the bowl.

i. General
There are so many categories of disability that it would not be possible to formulate enough rules to cover every contingency. It will depend on a personal evaluation of how best each person can be enabled to play the game on terms that are as equal as possible. The most important thing is to search for ways in which people with any kind of disability can enjoy the game of short mat bowls: all it needs is thought, goodwill and ingenuity.

j. Resting
At the discretion of the Home Team, any member, either disabled or otherwise, who requires to rest between ends, shall be allowed to do so, but they must not wander away from the rink mat. A chair at the end of the rink mat and behind or slightly away to one side of the fender, is permissible, if practicable.
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EQUIPMENT

42] MATCH UMPIRES & EQUIPMENT

The HOME team shall always be responsible for supplying a Non Playing Umpire. He/She must be conversant with this Rule book. If any matter arises that he/she feels unable to deal with, then it should be referred to the Association Committee for their decision.

The HOME team shall have available for use : ... an ample supply of ancillary equipment, i.e.; Measures, Wedges, Squares, Callipers, Spray & Stick Chalk etc.
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43] THE RINK MAT

The rink mat shall be of a suitable material conducive to the true running of bowls.

It shall be coloured green and shall have suitable underlay or an approved bonded backing.
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44] THE BOWLS

a) Bowls shall not exceed 5¼ inches ( 135 mm ) or be less than 4½ inches ( 115 mm ) in diameter, and shall not exceed 3½ lbs ( 1590 gms ) in weight, and may be of any colour or composition.

b) Loading of bowls is strictly prohibited.

c) Coloured discs or stickers may be used to identify team or club bowls, and for this purpose they shall be classed as part of the bowl. The placing of a number of stickers on top of each other could render the bowl invalid if objected to.

d) Bias 3 bowls are recommended.
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45] THE JACK

The jack shall be round and white or yellow in colour.

Only 30 oz. ( 850 g ) jacks are permitted in any game organised by this Association.
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CONDITIONS OF THE GAME

46] FORM AND DURATION

A game of bowls shall be played on one rink mat or on several. It shall consist of a specified number of shots, or ends, or shall be played for any period of time previously arranged.
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47] PLAY ARRANGEMENTS

a) A game shall be played on one rink as :-

1) A Singles game by two players, each player playing four bowls singly and alternately.

2) A Pairs game by two players on either side, each playing two bowls. The Leads shall play their bowls singly, alternately, and in turn, before changing ends with the Skips, who will then play their bowls, singly, alternately and in turn.

3) A Triples game by two teams of three players on each side, each player playing two bowls singly, alternately, and in turn, with the Leads playing their bowls, before the Seconds be allowed to bowl their bowls. The Leads will remain at the delivery mat end until after both Seconds have played all their bowls, then these four players will change ends with the Skips, who will now play their bowls singly, alternately and in turn.

4) A Fours game (Rink) by two teams of four players on each side, each player will play 2 bowls only, each singly, alternately and in turn, the leads will bowl their bowls before the seconds be allowed to bowl theirs, and all players shall remain behind the fender (where practicable).

If no third is at the head end, both thirds will then bowl their bowls singly and alternately. these players will then change ends with the skips who will now bowl their bowls, singly, and alternately.

Where one or both thirds elect to be at the head end whilst the leads and seconds play their bowls, the leads and seconds will play their bowls as above and then proceed to the head end, the thirds will leave the head end when it is their turn to bowl and may not return to the head end until both have played their 2 bowls for that end.

b) A team game shall be played by two sides on a given number of rink mats, each side composed of an equal number of players.
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48] SCORECARDS

All scorecards, for all Association organised games MUST show both the Christian and Surname of every player. In League matches they MUST also show the Team (Not necessarily club) names, plus the date and rink numbers. All dead ends must also be shown against relevant end, and on the side of the card showing the offending teams score. The "Cards from" line must also be completed.
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NOTE: FOR SINGLES, PAIRS AND OYSTER CUP

On the day set aside for the any EKSMBA competition players involved should report to the Competition Secretary or his/her deputy at least 20 minutes before the first game is scheduled for playing.
In any dispute the Competition Secretary's decision will be final.

SINGLES & PAIRS COMPETITION RULES

In addition to the general rules laid down in this book, the following shall apply when players are involved in playing Association Singles and Pairs competitions. They will apply for all rounds.:-

Singles games will be played with 4 bowls per player.

Pairs games will be played with 2 bowls per player.

All rounds shall be over 18 ends.

If a player or players cannot or will not play a game for any reason they must concede the game to their opponents. There will be no other way to reach a result.

All club members shall be eligible to enter, not just League players.

Entry fees shall be set annually at the AGM.

All matches will be redrawn after the completion of each round, up to but not including the Semi-final.

The Semi-finals and Finals shall be held on the same day at a venue designated in advance by the Committee.

Entry forms will be sent out to club secretary's before the start of each new season. Completed forms must be returned to the Competition Secretary.

For Pairs games, both names must be submitted on entry form, to allow opponents the chance of having a second contact, however this choice of partner may be changed within the bounds of the statement below, but any change must be notified to the Competition Secretary.

NO SUBSTITUTES WILL BE PERMITTED AFTER THE FIRST ROUND.

The HOME draw will be responsible for supplying a Marker for Singles competitions, and also for appointing an Umpire for both competitions.

They MUST be fully conversant with the Associations rules.

Games MUST be played on or before the round completion date set by the Competition Secretary.

The Home Draw must contact their opponents within 3 weeks of receipt of notification slips ( in case of persons being away from home, this is assumed to be 2 days after being posted by Competition Secretary), failure to do so will mean they automatically forfeit the match.

Where it is found that the same opponents are drawn for both the Singles and Pairs then 3 separate dates must be offered for both competitions, also the player named as the Home Draw is responsible for making personal contact with their opponent and not do this through a third party.

A choice of at least THREE dates must be given by the HOME draw, to their opponents, as soon as possible after receipt of the draw slip, and preferably within one week of same.

If the home draws venue is not available on three dates prior to the cut off date notified by the Competition Secretary, then the game should be mutually arranged at the opponents venue.

When offering dates and times for either Singles and/or Pairs Competition games, a time   no later than 8pm, on 3 separate dates, must be offered. However this ceiling of 8pm is   not binding if the opponent/s mutually agree to a later start. It must be noted though, that   if a later start time is unacceptable to the opponent/s they cannot be forced accept it.

A match will be awarded to the home draw if reasonable dates and times were offered to the opponent, and it is not played on one of these. It will be awarded to the opponent if this is not the case.
NO game can over-run the cut off date (Unless authorised by the Competition Secretary), as later rounds cannot be redrawn until all previous results are received. If a prearranged game is cancelled for any reason other than :-

Illness, Bereavement or Inclement Weather, then the offending player/s shall forfeit that game, and their opponent/s shall be given an automatic Bye into the next round.

If a player/s win through to the semi-finals and then find they cannot attend on the date preset then their opponent/s shall be awarded the match and move on to the semi-finals in their place.

On the day set aside for the Semi-finals and Finals, players involved should report to the Competition Secretary or his/her deputy at least 20 minutes before the first game is scheduled for playing.

In any dispute the Competition Secretary's decision will be final.
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OYSTER CUP INTER CLUB TRIPLES COMPETITION

  This is a ONE DAY competition, and  is open to all affiliated clubs.

1) All affiliated league clubs are automatically entered for this competition, and it is an individual   clubs responsibility, if they do not wish to enter, to withdraw their team no later than 4 full weeks before the Competition date.

2) Should a club withdraw their team later than the 4 week period stated above then they may be liable to a penalty (as per Constitution   Article 4), and as decided by the Committee at their next meeting.

3) All teams must report on arrival to the Association Secretary or his/her deputy, with their players names, and fees due, for registration.

4) All teams will play, initially, in groups on a round robin basis, to determine group winners. The winner of each group going on into straight knock-out rounds up to and including the final.

(If an odd number of clubs are represented then the highest second placed team will also go forward to the knock-out stages.)

5) Round robin games will be over a set time with teams being informed when there are 5 minutes of play remaining. Play should cease immediately the allotted time is called and final ends with 2 or more bowls played will count on the scorecard as a played end.

6) 2 points will be awarded for each Win.

1 point will be awarded for each Draw.

7) At the completion of the round robin, if there is a tie between teams in a group, then the following will apply :-

Firstly the number of Ends Won will count, and if there is still a tie situation then it will be decided on Shots Differential (Shots For minus Shots Against)

8) Dead ends should be counted as per Rule 19.

9) All players whilst in possession of the rink mat may not go beyond the first dead line, and Skips in particular may not visit the head.
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PLAYERS AND THEIR DUTIES

SKIP

a) The Skip shall have sole charge of his/her side. He/She will control the play and his/her instructions must be obeyed by all of his/her players.

b) With the opposing Skip he/she will decide all disputed points or shots, when both Skips agree their decision shall be final. If they cannot agree either one may call the Umpire who will arbitrate and his/her decision shall be final and binding.

c) He/She will be responsible (whilst at the head end) for marking all touchers or removing the chalk marks from any non-touchers. He/She will also be responsible for removing any dead bowls from the ditch, off the rink mat or dead area.

d) He/She will (whilst at the head end) decide on any line bowls with the other Skip, and any other matters, or will call the Umpire to adjudicate.

e) Whilst at the playing end he/she may visit the head only when in possession of the rink mat. He/She will not carry his/her bowl beyond the nearest dead line .... any bowl so carried, beyond the dead line, will be declared dead and must be removed from the rink mat.

f) It will be the responsibility of the Skip to call foot faults whilst at the delivery end.

g) When players change ends, after the Leads and Seconds have played all their bowls, both Skips must go to the delivery end before any further bowls are played. Skips may not stay at the head to watch their opponent bowl. Skips may only visit the head when they are in possession of the rink mat, and only then if both Skips have played their first bowl.

If either Skip visits the head before both Skips have played their first bowl, then their next bowl will be stopped and removed from the mat.

THIRD

a) The third will do all measuring and agree the shots allowing the opposite number to also measure and will inform the Skip of the result. Only if thirds cannot agree will they cal the Skips who will then arbitrate.

b) The third will mark all touchers or remove marks from any non-touchers and will remove any dead bowls from the rink mat or ditch, and will see that the jack or any toucher in the ditch is not disturbed except by another toucher.

c) The third will take charge of the head only when it is the Skips turn to bowl and their side is in possession of the rink mat. If the head is changed they will inform the Skip and direct play accordingly.

d) The thirds may remain at the head end until it is their turn to bowl. They may not return to the head end or pass beyond the delivery end dead line until they change places when the first skip comes to the delivery end., except to replace the block if disturbed by a bowl they have personally bowled.




SECOND IN A FOURS GAME

a) The second will keep the score card and will see that the names of the players on each side are entered.

b) The second will record the score both for and against as agreed by the thirds and will compare the card with the opposing second after each end.

c) The second will be responsible for the score card and will retain it in their possession at all times and hand it to the Skip on the completion of the game.

DIRECTING PLAY

Only one player shall be allowed on the mat at the head end at any one time in order to direct play and then only when their side is in possession of the rink mat. They must leave the rink mat before the next bowl is played.

 

SECOND (In a Triples game)

a) The Second will keep the scorecard and also agree the shot or shots with the opposing Second, and having recorded them will inform the Skip.

b) The Second will prove claim for shot or shots by measuring, but will not cause any bowl to be moved until the shot or shots are agreed, allowing the opposing Second to also measure, and if they cannot agree will call the Skips to arbitrate.

c) The Second will take charge of the head only when their side is in possession of the rink mat, and will inform the Skip if the head has been altered, and guide the play accordingly.

d) The Second will (whilst at the head end) chalk all touchers and remove the marks from non-touchers.

e) The Second will (whilst at the head end) remove any dead bowls from the ditch, off the rink mat or the dead area.

f) The Second will see that the jack or any toucher in the ditch is not disturbed, except by the action of another toucher.

g) The Second will not visit the head whilst at the delivery mat end, and will (where practicable) remain behind the fender until the opposing Second has bowled all his/her bowls in that end.

h) The Second will (whilst at the head end) decide on any line bowls with the other second, or call upon the Skips to decide.

LEAD

a) The Lead shall place the delivery mat correctly and see that the jack is correctly centred on the jack line before playing the first bowl.

b) The Leads shall bowl singly, and alternately, until all their bowls have been played.

c) The Leads will not visit the head or go to the head end, until all the others players at that end have bowled all their bowls, and will (where practicable) remain behind the fender.
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DUTIES OF THE MARKER AND UMPIRE

The MARKER shall :-

a) Be familiar with the Laws of the Game, and see such Laws are complied with.

b) Be in possession of a reliable measure, callipers and both spray and stick chalk.

c) Be in possession of the scorecard, and pen or pencil, and will see that the FULL names of both contestants are entered.

d) Make themselves familiar with the identifying marks on the bowls of each player.

e) Witness the toss for the start.

f) See the delivery mat is correctly aligned, and will place the jack on the jack line at the position required by the player to bowl first.

g) Observe a strict neutrality.

h) Answer any questions put to them by the players, but will not give any information unless requested.

i) Not pass any comment.

j) Address only the player who has possession of the rink mat.

k) Record only the score as agreed by the players.

l) Measure only when requested, but will not cause any bowl to be moved until both players agree the shot or shots.

m) In any difficult measure, not attempt to make a decision, but will call the Umpire to adjudicate.

n) Keep the players informed as to the state of the game.

o) Mark all touchers and remove the marks from all non-touchers.

p) Remove all dead bowls from the ditch, off the rink mat or dead area.

q) Adjudicate on all line bowls.

r) On completion of the game see that the scorecard is signed by the losing player, and handed in to the game controller or official, or if it is an Association competition game, returned to the home player for them to forward to the Associations Competition Secretary.

s) Ensure that all players, umpires, spectators and other markers in the vicinity of the head are made aware that a player has signalled their intention to play a forcing or firing shot and indicate to such a player when this has been done.

The UMPIRE shall :-

a) Enforce the Laws of the Game.

b) See that the game is continuous, and played in a competitive and sporting manner.

c) Be available for consultation on any matter or point of law concerning the game.

d) Measure all difficult shots when requested, he/she will tolerate no interference, and his/her decision is final and binding.

e) Arbitrate in any dispute, and his/her decision is final.

f) Pass no comment, advice or praise.

g) Remain strictly neutral and unbiased at all times.

h) Be fully conversant with the Laws of the Game and any changes thereto.

i) Carry an up-to-date Rule Book at all times whilst officiating.

j) Only measure with such equipment as is approved by the E.K.S.M.B.A.

k) Follow this code of conduct for Umpires as laid down by the E.K.S.M.B.A.

l) Any dispute not provided for in these rules shall be decided by the Umpire who's decision shall be final.
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FORCING SHOTS

A player who intends to play a forcing shot MUST give a VERBAL and a VISUAL warning to the player in charge of the head end, or the marker in a singles game, and must then allow time for those in the vicinity of the head to be made aware of their intentions before delivering their bowl.

Once advised that a forcing or firing shot is intended, the player in charge of the head, or the marker in a singles game, must advise all players in the vicinity of the head and any nearby markers, umpires or spectators that such a shot is about to be played.

It is ultimately the responsibility of the player delivering the bowl to ensure that no other person is placed at risk of injury.

Failure to comply with this rule will result in the offending player being warned at the first infringement. Subsequent infringements will result in the player being asked to leave the rink and take no further part in the game.
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CONDUCT

In the case of a wilful breach of the Laws of the Game or unfair play or unsporting conduct, the Umpire may caution the offending player/s or spectator/s or order them to retire from the Rink Mat or area, if the offender is a player no substitute shall be allowed. In all cases except SERIOUS MISCONDUCT a player shall receive ONE caution.
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SINGLES PLAYERS

Players in a 4 bowl Singles Game are allowed to visit the head only when in possession of the Rink Mat, and only then after each player has delivered 2 bowls apiece.
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CASH or other AWARDS

NOTE :...... THERE SHALL BE NOTHING IN THESE LAWS WHICH PREVENTS ANY PLAYER FROM PLAYING FOR CASH OR ANY OTHER REWARD, NOR SHALL THEY PROHIBIT CASH OR KIND BEING OFFERED.
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FIXTURE LIST DRAW

It was agreed at the 1999 A.G.M. that when the fixture lists are drawn up annually, teams from the same club playing each other in any division, must, where-ever practical, be drawn to play these games as early as possible in the season. Thus alleviating any thoughts that one team would allow the other to win to improve their league position.
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MAT MEASUREMENTS

RINK MAT
Maximum Length 45ft (13700mm)       Minimum Length 40ft (12200mm)
Width 6ft (1830mm)                     Width Tolerance 2in (50mm)
 

FENDER   (A)
Back :-
6ft (1830mm)(Inside) x 3in (76mm) High x 3in (76mm) Max Width, 1½in (38mm) Min Width

Side :-
12in (305mm)(Inside) x 3in (76mm) High x 3in (76mm) Max Width, 1½in (38mm) Min Width

Note : Fender sides may be extended beyond "Back" and joined by a wooden strip to make a recess to hold bowls.
 
 
 

BLOCK
Length                                                                    15in (380mm)
Height                                                                         3in (76mm)
Width                        3in (76mm) Max,              1½in (38mm) Min
 

DELIVERY MAT
Length                                                                    24in (610mm)
Width                                                                     14in (356mm)
 

DELIVERY LINES   (B)
From Centre Line                                                   13in (330mm)
Length, from Ditch Line                                        54in (1370mm)
 

DELIVERY MAT LINES   (C)
From Centre Line                                                     7in (178mm)
Length                                                                    12in (305mm)
From  Ditch Line (D) to Dead Line (E)       108in (2743mm)
 

JACK LINE   (F)
From Dead Line                                                     36in (915mm)
From Ditch Line                                                      36in (915mm)
Length                                                                    36in (915mm)
 

BLOCK LINE   (G)  (Across Centre of Mat Length)
Length                                                                   15in (380mm)
 

FENDER, BLOCK & MARKINGS
Fender & Block, White Paint                        Markings ½in (12.5mm) White Tape
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FINAL WORD

It should be noted that no code of laws and rules can govern for every situation and the unforeseen can arise. where an incident occurs that cannot reasonably have been foreseen, it is hoped that in the absence of any express rule, good sportsmanship and commonsense will prevail.
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