Rules For Short Mat Bowls

Mastering the Green: A Comprehensive Guide to Short Mat Bowls Rules

Short mat bowls, a popular indoor version of lawn bowls, offers a fun and engaging experience for players of all ages and skill levels. While sharing similarities with its outdoor counterpart, short mat bowls has its own unique set of rules and nuances. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of short mat bowls rules, ensuring you have a solid understanding before stepping onto the mat. Whether you're a seasoned player looking for a refresher or a complete novice eager to learn, this article will equip you with the knowledge to confidently navigate the game.

Understanding the Basics: Equipment and Setup

Before diving into the rules, let's familiarize ourselves with the essential elements of short mat bowls. The game is played on a short mat, typically 12 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, using lightweight bowls and a smaller, slightly heavier jack (also known as a kitty). Each team typically consists of two or four players.

Key Equipment:

• Bowls: Lightweight bowls made of resin or similar material, typically weighing between 1.2 and 1.6 kg. Each player has a set of four bowls.
• Jack: A smaller, heavier object that acts as the target.
• Mat: A specifically designed mat providing a consistent and smooth playing surface.
• Measuring Tape: Used to determine the winner of an end.

Game Setup:

The game starts with a coin toss to determine which team plays first. The team that wins the toss decides who will bowl the jack. The jack is bowled from the end of the mat, aiming for the opposite end. Once the jack has come to rest, the teams take turns bowling their bowls, attempting to get them as close as possible to the jack.

The Rules of Play: A Detailed Overview

The rules of short mat bowls might seem complex at first glance, but with a little practice, they become second nature. Here's a breakdown of the key regulations:

1. The Delivery:

• The bowler must stand behind the back line and deliver the bowl underarm, in a smooth, controlled manner. Throwing or forcefully launching the bowl is against the rules.
• The bowl must leave the bowler's hand before it crosses the back line. If the bowl is released after crossing the line, it’s a foul.
• The bowl should not be propelled by any part of the bowler's body besides the hand.
• Bowlers must not obstruct the mat or interfere with the opponent's bowls.

2. Fouls:

Several actions constitute fouls in short mat bowls:

• Crossing the Back Line: As mentioned, releasing the bowl after crossing the back line is a foul.
• Incorrect Delivery: If the bowl is thrown overarm, dropped, or propelled using any body part other than the hand.
• Interference: Deliberately disturbing the opponents' bowls before all bowls have been delivered.
• Touching the Jack: Players are not allowed to touch the jack until the end is complete unless it is obviously out of bounds.

Consequences of Fouls:

The penalty for a foul typically involves the removal of the offending bowl from the mat. If the jack is also accidentally moved by the foul, the jack remains where it landed. The penalty is therefore not always immediately apparent and is often only revealed at the end of play. However, some competition may employ a different penalty system.

3. Play Order:

Players alternate turns, each bowling their four bowls one by one in the sequence determined at the start of each game. Once all players in the team have finished bowling, play continues with the other team following the same method.

4. Measuring and Scoring:

At the end of an end, the distance of each bowl to the jack is measured. The points are awarded to the team with the bowl closest to the jack, and the closest bowls are counted up to a maximum of four. If the jack is within one inch of the front edge of the mat, the point is awarded to the team who placed the bowl nearest to the jack.

5. Ends and Games:

A game consists of a set number of ends, typically 12 or 15, which are agreed upon at the start. The team with the most points at the end of the game is declared the winner. A draw is possible if both teams have the same score.

Understanding the Strategy: Beyond the Rules

While understanding the rules is crucial, mastering short mat bowls involves strategic thinking and skillful execution. Here are some key strategic considerations:

• Jack Placement: The position of the jack significantly impacts the game. A well-placed jack can give your team a substantial advantage.
• Bowl Placement: Strategic bowl placement is key to maximizing points. Aim to cluster your bowls near the jack, blocking opponents' bowls, and creating a defensive barrier.
• Reading the Mat: Understanding the mat's surface and how it affects bowl trajectory is essential for accurate shot making. This develops over time and from experience playing the game.
• Teamwork: Communication and teamwork are essential in short mat bowls, particularly in team matches. Discuss strategies, coordinate bowl placements, and support your teammates.

Advanced Techniques and Considerations

For those aiming to elevate their game beyond the basics, consider these advanced techniques:

• Drive: A powerful shot used to move the jack or displace opponent's bowls.
• Draw: A delicate shot used to place a bowl precisely near the jack.
• Takeout: A shot used to remove an opponent's bowl from a scoring position.
• Block: A shot used to prevent the opposing team's bowls from reaching the jack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between short mat bowls and lawn bowls?

A: Short mat bowls is an indoor adaptation of lawn bowls. It uses a smaller mat, lighter bowls, and typically involves faster play.

Q: Can I play short mat bowls alone?

A: While short mat bowls is a team game, some variations exist that can be played solo against a set score or target.

Q: Where can I find a short mat bowls club?

A: Many community centers and leisure facilities offer short mat bowls clubs. Local searches online can help you find clubs in your area.

Q: What kind of footwear is recommended for short mat bowls?

A: Comfortable, flat-soled shoes with good grip are recommended to prevent slipping.

Q: Is short mat bowls suitable for all ages and fitness levels?

A: Yes, short mat bowls is a relatively gentle sport suitable for players of all ages and fitness levels. It can be adapted to accommodate varying physical abilities.

Conclusion: Embracing the Fun and Camaraderie

Short mat bowls offers a rewarding blend of skill, strategy, and social interaction. By understanding the rules, mastering the basic techniques, and appreciating the strategic elements, you can significantly enhance your enjoyment of the game. So, grab your bowls, find a local club, and embrace the fun and camaraderie of this engaging sport. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you play, the better you'll become. The journey of mastering short mat bowls is an ongoing one, filled with learning, challenges, and the satisfaction of improving your skills. So, step onto the mat, enjoy the game, and discover the rewarding world of short mat bowls!