Pairs and Triples Play

Pairs and Triples involve teams of two or three players, respectively. In Pairs, Law 3.2 dictates that each player uses four bowls, delivered alternatingly between opposing leads and then opposing skips. In Triples, Law 3.3 specifies that each player uses three bowls. This leads to 18 bowls per end, creating a complex "head" where a maximum of nine points can be scored by one team. While match durations vary, the laws allow for play to be determined by either a set number of ends—often 18 or 21—or a specific time limit. In both formats, the sequence of play is critical; players must maintain their designated roles throughout the game, and the highest aggregate score determines the winner.