Players Roles & Responsibilities and rink Possession
The Fours format is widely regarded as the most popular and inclusive version of the game, accommodating a maximum of eight players per rink. In this format, each team comprises four individuals who work collectively to execute a cohesive strategy, resulting in a dynamic and team-oriented competition. The majority of bowls matches are conducted in this format due to its balance between skill and teamwork.
The Fours format requires precision and collaboration. Each player is permitted only two bowls per end, underscoring the significance of every delivery. Therefore, meticulous focus is imperative, as each bowl can heavily influence the overall outcome of the game.
A Fours team consists of four designated roles: Lead, Second, Third, and Skip. These positions are played in a fixed order, alternating shots with corresponding players from the opposing team. Adherence to this sequence is mandatory, as any deviation results in forfeiture of the match to the opponents.
Each position within the team entails specific responsibilities, demanding individual expertise while contributing to the team’s overarching strategy. Below is a detailed explanation of the roles and their respective duties:
The Lead
The Lead is entrusted with the responsibility of placing the mat and delivering the jack at the commencement of the game. The jack must be accurately centered before the Lead plays their initial bowl. At the start of the game, the back edge of the mat is positioned 2 meters from the rear ditch. For subsequent ends, the back edge must maintain a minimum distance of 2 meters from the rear ditch, with the front edge no less than 25 meters from the front ditch, all aligned to the centerline of the rink.
If the team has secured the previous end, the Lead gains the advantage of setting the jack to their team’s preferred length. This player must exhibit proficiency in delivering bowls across varying distances, aiming to position their bowls as close to the jack as possible, ideally within one meter, while outscoring the opposition. The Lead also follows strategic instructions from the Skip, executing forehand or backhand deliveries based on the team’s tactical requirements.
The Second
The Second assumes the responsibility of maintaining the official score for their team. This includes recording player names on the scorecard, verifying scores with the opposing Second after each end, and submitting the completed scorecard to the Skip at the conclusion of the match.
In addition to scorekeeping, the Second focuses on strategic positioning during gameplay. Should the Lead successfully place a bowl near the jack, the Second’s objective is to safeguard this position. Conversely, if the Lead’s bowl is not closest, the Second must endeavor to gain an advantageous position by delivering precise shots near the jack. Adaptability and the ability to execute various shot types are critical competencies for this role.
The Third
The Third is often called upon to resolve contested measurements during the game, requiring a high level of skill and precision. This position demands an experienced player who can deliver powerful, controlled shots when necessary, while remaining versatile enough to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the game.
Strategic Communication
An integral aspect of the Third’s responsibilities is serving as the team’s strategic liaison. Collaborating closely with the Skip, the Third analyses game scenarios, provides input on shot selection, and suggests tactical adjustments. Clear communication, the ability to interpret the head accurately, and maintaining composure under pressure are essential attributes that enable the Third to contribute effectively to the team’s performance.
The Skip
The Skip, as the final player to deliver bowls, is tasked with assessing the game’s state and capitalising on their team’s position or addressing challenges posed by opponents. Beyond their strategic responsibilities, the Skip acts as a motivational leader, fostering morale and focus, particularly during critical moments. A proficient Skip not only orchestrates team tactics but also reinforces cohesion, ensuring that every team member performs confidently and effectively. Their leadership is often a decisive factor in the game’s outcome.
Additionally, the Skip collaborates with the opposing Skip to address disputes during the match. Should the two fail to reach an agreement, the matter is escalated to the umpire, whose decision is considered final and binding.
Player Positioning During Play
Control of the rink alternates between teams, with the team whose turn it is to deliver a bowl maintaining possession. Once the bowl comes to rest, possession transfers to the opposing team unless the delivered bowl is a "toucher." In such cases, possession remains with the delivering team until the toucher is officially marked.
Players not in possession must refrain from causing distractions or interfering with their opponents. At the head of the green, players should position themselves behind the jack and away from the head unless they are directing play, as is the case for the Skip or Third. At the mat end, only the player currently delivering a bowl may stand on the mat; all others must remain behind it.
Playing Out of Turn
Strict adherence to the prescribed order of play is mandatory. If a bowl is delivered out of sequence, the opposing Skip may:
- Stop the bowl during its delivery and request it be played in the correct order.
- Accept the outcome if the bowl has affected the jack or another bowl, or request the end to be replayed.
Playing the Incorrect Bowl
If a player inadvertently delivers an incorrect bowl, it must be substituted with the correct bowl.
Changing Bowls
Players are prohibited from changing bowls during a match unless there is an objection under LAW II 3(c) or the bowl has sustained damage, rendering it unfit for play. In such cases, the umpire’s ruling is final.
Interruptions During Play
Should adverse weather or poor visibility disrupt the game, teams may mutually agree to suspend play. Upon resumption, the score remains as it was prior to the interruption, and any incomplete ends are disregarded. If a player is unable to continue the match, one substitute is permitted.
Determining the Result of an End
The bowl(s) closest to the jack determine the score for the end. In matches decided by winning ends, the team with the closest bowl claims the end and is awarded one point. In alternate formats, every bowl closer to the jack than the opponent's nearest bowl scores one point each.
Both teams are allowed up to 30 seconds to ensure all bowls come to rest before tallying the score. Bowls and the jack must remain stationary until the Skips agree on the score, except in cases where a bowl must be relocated for measurement purposes.
If the closest bowls of both teams are equidistant from the jack, the end is declared a "drawn end," and no points are awarded. Nevertheless, the end is recorded as played.
Final Game Decisions
In matches judged by the number of winning ends, the team with the majority of ends is declared victorious. In other formats, the team with the highest cumulative score prevails.