Short mat bowls lets players enjoy a target game indoors on a roll-out mat. It shares the aim of finishing nearer the jack than the opposition, but its layout and laws are its own. Do not assume every outdoor lawn bowls rule transfers.
The playing area
A short mat has a narrow playing surface with a delivery area, central block and a target end. A delivered bowl must avoid the block and finish within the valid playing area. The block changes the route available to the jack, so line selection often looks different from a full-length green.
How an end is played
Players alternate bowls toward the jack and score once the end is complete. The side with the nearest bowl scores for each of its bowls closer than the opponent’s nearest. Before a match, confirm the competition’s number of bowls, ends and tie procedure. Social sessions may simplify these details.
First-session technique
Begin with a smooth, low delivery and watch the arc rather than throwing at the target. Aim for a safe route around the block. Change one variable at a time: first the line, then the weight. Because the mat is short, a small change in release can matter a lot. Practise with the bowls provided before buying a set.
Use the right rulebook
The English Short Mat Bowling Association publishes its own laws and competition rules. Local associations may also set event conditions. If a bowl clips the block or stops near a boundary, leave it in place until the players or official apply the relevant rule.
Sources: English Short Mat Bowling Association rules, ESMBA document library.
For a clearer look at a close club head, explore WGTS on iPhone or Android. Follow your competition's official measuring procedure for the result.