The Four Main Formats of Competitive Bowls

One of the great strengths of lawn bowls is its flexibility. Whether you want to compete alone or as part of a team, there is a competitive format for you. Understanding the differences between the formats will help you find where you enjoy playing most — and where your strengths lie.

Singles

In singles, it's one player against another. Each player typically uses four bowls, and the game is played over a set number of ends (commonly 21) or until one player reaches a target score (often 21 shots). There's nowhere to hide in singles — every decision and delivery is entirely your own. It demands strong mental resilience as well as technical consistency.

Singles is often considered the purest test of bowls ability and is a feature of all major championships from club level right up to World Bowls.

Pairs

In pairs, two players compete on each side. Each player uses four bowls. The player who delivers first is called the lead; the second player is the skip (or sometimes called the second). The skip typically directs tactics and delivers last, when the head is set.

Pairs demands strong communication and complementary skill sets. The lead focuses on consistent drawing while the skip needs tactical versatility — able to draw, drive, or play a yard-on as the situation demands.

Triples

In triples, three players make up each team. The format is:

  • Lead: delivers two bowls first, aiming to set a good head near the jack.
  • Second (Vice): delivers two bowls, building on or repairing the head.
  • Skip: delivers two bowls last and directs the team's strategy.

With only two bowls each, every delivery counts. Triples rewards teams that communicate well and adapt quickly to changing heads.

Fours (Rinks)

The fours format — also called rinks — is the traditional team game. Four players make up each side, each delivering two bowls:

  1. Lead: Sets the head with the opening two bowls.
  2. Second: Builds on the lead's work or corrects deficiencies.
  3. Third (Vice-skip): Plays a key tactical role and measures disputed shots.
  4. Skip: Delivers last, directs the team, and makes key decisions on shot selection.

Fours is the most team-oriented format and the most common in club competitions. It rewards cohesion, communication, and clear role definition.

Tournament Structures: How Competitions Are Organised

Club and regional tournaments typically use one of three structures:

Structure How It Works Common Use
Round Robin Every team plays every other; points awarded for wins Club leagues, smaller events
Knockout Single elimination — lose and you're out Club championships, national events
Section Play + Knockout Group stages to qualify, then knockout rounds Regional and national championships

Getting Involved in Club Competitions

Most clubs run internal competitions throughout the season, covering all four formats. These are the best way to develop match experience in a low-pressure environment. As you improve, county and national competitions are the natural next step.

Don't be afraid to enter competitions early in your bowls career — most experienced players are supportive of newer members giving competitive play a go, and there's no better teacher than match experience.