What is Short Mat Bowls?

Short mat bowls is a variation of the traditional outdoor game of lawn bowls, played on a shorter mat indoors. The sport is enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities and is a great way to keep active and socialise.

How to Play Short Mat Bowls:

⦁    Setting up the mat: The short mat should be laid out in a rectangular shape and measured to be 38-40 yards in length and 6-6.5 yards wide. The mat should be smooth and level and the playing area should be marked out with a block of wood in the centre and a jack (small yellow ball).

⦁    The Equipment: Each player will need a set of bowls (also known as woods). The bowls have a bias (a curved shape) which causes them to follow a curved path when rolled. They come in different sizes and weights to suit different players. Also, players will need a pair of flat-soled shoes to play in.

⦁    The Game:  The aim of the game is to get your bowls as close as possible to the jack while also trying to move the opposition's bowls away from the jack. The team or player with the bowl closest to the jack at the end of the end, scores a point for each of their bowls that are closer to the jack than the opponent's closest bowl.

⦁    The Delivery: The first player then delivers their first bowl, trying to get it as close as possible to the jack. The opposing team then takes their turn and continues to alternate until all bowls have been delivered.

⦁    Measuring: After all the bowls have been delivered, an umpire or a member of each team will measure the distance between the jack and each bowl to determine the score. The team or player with the closest bowl scores one point for each of their bowls that is closer to the jack than the opponent's closest bowl.

⦁    The Ends: The game is typically played over a set number of ends (similar to innings in other sports) and the team or player with the most points at the end of the game wins.

 

What are the Rules of Short Mat Bowls?

The rules of short mat bowls are similar to those of outdoor lawn bowls, but adapted for indoor play on a shorter mat. Players take turns to deliver their bowls, trying to get them as close as possible to the jack. Points are awarded for bowls that are closest to the jack, and the team or player with the most points at the end of the game wins.

What is the Difference between Short Mat Bowls and Normal Bowls?

The main difference between short mat bowls and normal bowls is the length of the mat and the block of wood in the centre of the mat.  Outdoor lawn bowls are played on a larger, grass playing surface.

Short Mat Bowls Techniques:

• The delivery: A good delivery is the key to success in short mat bowls. The player should have a consistent and smooth delivery that allows them to control the speed and direction of the bowl.
• The draw: A good draw shot is one that stops close to the jack. This shot requires good control of weight and line.
• The firing shot: A firing shot shot is used to move the opposition's bowls away from the jack or to move the jack closer to the player's bowls. It requires good power