A good singles marker is visible when needed and almost invisible when not. The marker protects the head, gives factual information to the player in possession, measures when asked and keeps an accurate card—without coaching either opponent.
Before the first end
Confirm the players’ names, the competition format, target score or number of ends, trial-end instructions and local Conditions of Play. Check that you can identify each set of bowls. When no umpire is present, the World Bowls laws give the marker additional pre-match checks, including stamps, rink width and distance markers.
Set up every end
Check the mat is on the centre line.
Centre the jack without changing its distance from the mat.
Make sure the centred jack meets the required minimum length.
Place a short jack at the 2-metre mark when the laws require it.
Stand to one side, behind the jack and away from the head. Do not cast a shadow over a player’s line or move while they are delivering.
Answer only what is asked
The player in possession may ask where the jack is or which bowl the marker considers shot. Answer that specific question clearly. Do not volunteer tactical advice, describe an unasked-for gap or signal to a player who does not have possession.
Manage touchers and the ditch
Mark touchers with chalk as soon as they come to rest and remove old marks from non-touchers. If marking could move a bowl, nominate it instead. Mark the position of a jack or toucher in the ditch with the correct indicator and, where appropriate, lines around its position.
Measure without disturbing the head
Do not move the jack or bowls until both players agree the number of shots. Measure a disputed shot when either player asks. If the players do not accept the result, call the umpire. When no umpire has been appointed, choose a competent neutral person; that decision is final.
Keep the score visible and accurate
At the end of each end, record the score and announce the running totals if no scoreboard is in use. At the finish, check names, signatures, completion time and the event’s process for returning the card.
A marker’s pocket checklist
chalk and ditch indicators;
pen or pencil and scorecard;
compact measure;
current Conditions of Play;
a calm, neutral routine.
WGTS can support that routine with a phone-based scorecard and a shared camera view of a close head. Keep the screen secondary to the players and use the official measure or umpire for competition decisions.
Take a clearer view onto the green
WGTS brings camera-assisted bowl measurement and digital scorecards to your phone. Use it as a decision-support tool for social play and practice; for competition decisions, follow your club and event rules and call the umpire or use an official measure whenever required.
Download WGTS for iPhone or get WGTS on Google Play.
Rules note: this guide is based on the World Bowls Laws of the Sport, Crystal Mark Fourth Edition. Domestic regulations and a competition’s Conditions of Play can add to or vary some procedures. Check the rules for your event.