Green light for bowlers this summer, but county matches could be scrapped

Local bowlers have been given the green light to resume competitive action this summer following the UK Government’s publication of a ‘roadmap’ out of the current lockdown.
By Melvyn Beck
Published 4th Mar 2021, 15:35 BST
Competitive bowls should be back this summer.Competitive bowls should be back this summer.
Competitive bowls should be back this summer.

The Peterborough League and Northants Bowling Federation have already confirmed they will be operating as near to normal as possible, but Bowls England are still to reveal their plans, although it is expected they will follow suit with possible amendments.

While league matches and county competitions are set to go ahead, there is a strong chance that inter-county championship matches may have to be sacrificed over concerns of travelling and the number of players involved.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Government have imposed a maximum limit of 30 in a single gathering between May 17 and June 21, so unless such matches can be adapted to comply with the regulations then there is every chance fixtures will be lost for the second year running.

Ruling bodies are still awaiting information on any additional restrictions that may apply in respect of clubhouse use, hospitality and travelling.

With regard to the League, clubs are now in the process of checking what players they will have available before the fixtures are produced in case teams have to be withdrawn.

Bourne Town have already decided to withdraw their teams from the League for this year owing to the covid situation which will affect all three competitions - midweek, weekend and over 55s.

The League hope that this will not be the forerunner to further resignations.

Related topics:EnglandUK GovernmentBowls