How to Use the Lawn Bowls Scorecard
This tool replaces the paper scorecard for any lawn bowls match. Set up the match format and team names, then enter the shots scored each end. Running totals, shot difference, and the match result update instantly.
Step-by-step
- Setup: Enter team or player names, choose the format (fours, triples, pairs, singles), and set the number of ends (or shot target for singles). Add an optional date and venue.
- Enter each end: After each end, type the shots scored by the team who held the shot. The other team enters 0. Only one team scores per end.
- Dead ends: Leave both fields at 0 and move on — a scoreless end won't skew the totals.
- Print: When the match finishes, click Print / Save PDF for a clean scorecard with all inputs and results.
Scoring Rules Quick Reference
Only the team with the bowl closest to the jack scores on any end. They earn one shot for each of their bowls that lies closer to the jack than the nearest opponent bowl. Shots are also called "points" or "counts" depending on your club's dialect.
- Fours: 4 players × 2 bowls = 8 bowls per team; max 8 shots per end; typically 21 ends
- Triples: 3 players × 3 bowls = 9 bowls per team; max 9 shots per end; typically 18 ends
- Pairs: 2 players × 4 bowls = 8 bowls per team; max 8 shots per end; typically 21 ends
- Singles: 1 player × 4 bowls = 4 bowls per player; max 4 shots per end; first to 21 shots wins
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you score points in lawn bowls?
Only the team whose bowl is closest to the jack can score. They score one shot for each of their bowls lying closer to the jack than the opponent's nearest bowl. For example, if Team A has three bowls closer than Team B's nearest bowl, Team A scores 3 shots for that end.
How many ends are played in a standard match?
Championship formats: Fours – 21 ends; Pairs – 21 ends; Triples – 18 ends; Singles – first player to reach 21 shots. Club competitions often use shorter formats (15 or 18 ends). World Bowls rules also recognise set-play formats used in televised events such as the Bowls Premier League.
What is a dead end in lawn bowls?
A dead end is replayed and does not count toward the total ends played. It typically occurs when the jack is driven outside the rink boundaries. Because no shots are scored, simply enter 0 for both teams and the running totals remain unchanged.
What is the difference between shots for and shots against?
Shots for (SF) is the total shots your team has accumulated across all ends. Shots against (SA) is the opponent's total. The shot difference (SF − SA) is the primary tiebreaker in most pennant and club competitions when two teams finish level on match points.
How are match points awarded in a competition?
Most club and pennant competitions award 2 match points for a win, 1 each for a draw, and 0 for a loss. Shot difference across the season is used if teams are tied on match points. Always confirm the exact system with your club or controlling body — some competitions award bonus points for winning margins of 10+ shots.
Can I use this scorecard for indoor bowls?
Yes. Indoor and outdoor lawn bowls share the same scoring system. Simply set the number of ends and bowls per player that your competition uses. The maximum shots per end will update automatically to match the format you have selected.
Method & source: Scoring rules verified against the World Bowls Laws of the Sport. This calculator is for guidance during club and social play; always refer to your competition's specific conditions of play.