During play, who is responsible for maintaining the score card?

In the game of bowls, the responsibility of maintaining the scorecard generally falls to the Skip of the team. The Skip is a strategic player who leads their team and is in charge of crucial decisions, including managing the score. They are actively involved in keeping track of points scored during a game and ensuring accuracy in recording results.

While other players may assist in noting scores or confirming results, the Skip's role explicitly includes the oversight of the scorecard, making them accountable for maintaining consistency throughout the game. They also have a direct involvement in determining the outcomes of ends and communicating these results to both their teammates and the opposing team, ensuring transparency and proper documentation.

This level of responsibility is rooted in the Skip's leadership role, while the other options, including the Lead player or the opposing Skip, do not carry the same primary obligation to maintain the scorecard. The umpire overseeing the game also does not keep the score; their focus is rather on enforcing the rules and ensuring fair play.