The mat is small, but it defines the start of every delivery. Correct placement protects the legal length of the jack and gives both sides the same reference point. Here is the simple version of the flat-green rules.
Where must the mat be placed?
The player starting the end places the mat with its centre line running lengthwise along the rink centre line. The front edge—the mat line—must be at least 2 metres from the rear ditch and at least 25 metres from the front ditch.
The regulation mat itself is 600 millimetres long and 360 millimetres wide. Clubs normally provide distance marks on the banks, so players do not need to guess these limits.
Who places the mat?
The player or team entitled to start the end places the mat, delivers the jack and plays the first bowl. After the first end, that right normally belongs to the winner of the previous scoring end. In a team game, the lead performs the task.
How does mat position affect jack length?
After the jack is centred, it normally must be at least 23 metres from the mat line. World Bowls allows national authorities to reduce that minimum to 21 metres for domestic play, with connected distance changes elsewhere in the laws. This is why local rules and rink markings matter.
What if the mat is in the wrong place?
Before the jack is delivered: the starting player corrects the mat.
After the jack but before the first bowl: the opponent places the mat correctly and re-delivers the jack, but does not take over first bowl.
After the first bowl: the original front-and-rear distance can no longer be challenged.
Can the mat move during an end?
Normally, no. If it is accidentally displaced, crooked or off the centre line, it is restored. A player may briefly lift it to let a neighbouring bowl pass, then replace it. In adverse weather, a player may lift and turn the mat over for better grip before delivering, again returning it to the same position.
Once the final bowl is delivered, a player or marker removes the mat beyond the rear bank. Singles opponents may agree to carry it up for the next end.
Three habits that prevent arguments
Use the rink’s distance markers instead of pacing the limits.
Check alignment before the jack leaves the hand.
Agree local jack-length variations before play starts.
WGTS includes a walking-distance tool on compatible Android devices, but regulation markings and approved measures—not an estimate—should decide legal mat and jack distances in competition.
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.