Who Goes First in Lawn Bowls? Toss and Opening Play Explained

The first delivery in lawn bowls is decided by a coin toss, but winning that toss gives you a choice rather than a compulsory first bowl. Understanding that choice helps a new player start calmly and lets an experienced team use the conditions.

Who takes part in the toss?

Under the World Bowls Laws of the Sport, the opponents toss in Singles, the skips toss in a team game and the coaches or representatives toss in a side game.

What can the winner choose?

The winner can place the mat, deliver the jack and play the first bowl. Alternatively, they can ask the opponent to do all three. The opponent cannot refuse. That second option can be useful when a team wants to observe the opening line and weight before delivering its own bowl.

Does the toss cover the trial ends?

If the coin is tossed before the trial ends, the winner's choice applies to the first trial end and the first scoring end. The opponents start the second trial end, giving both sides a chance to lead in one direction.

Who starts the later ends?

After the opening end, the winner of the previous scoring end places the mat, delivers the jack and plays first. A tied end does not create a new scoring winner, so control follows the last scoring end. Special formats can add their own procedures through the conditions of play.

What happens before an extra end?

A drawn knockout game normally requires an extra end. There is a fresh toss, and the winner again decides who plays first. If another extra end is needed, the players toss again rather than automatically alternating.

Make the choice tactical, not automatic

Consider the rink, wind, preferred hand and opponent before deciding. Taking the mat lets you choose the opening length. Giving it away lets you collect information, but also gives the opponent first control of the head.

Keep the opening sequence clear

WGTS provides digital scorekeeping and camera-assisted measurement on compatible devices, helping players keep the match state clear from the first end. Try WGTS for iPhone or WGTS for Android.

Rules note: always check your event's domestic regulations and conditions of play.