What does an umpire check regarding the bowls before a game begins?

Before a game begins, an umpire checks for the presence of a visible World Bowls Stamp on all bowls. This stamp certifies that the bowls meet specific standards set by World Bowls, ensuring uniformity and fairness in the game. The presence of this stamp is crucial because it acknowledges the quality and authenticity of the equipment being used in official competitions.

While other checks like assessing the condition of the bowls or counting how many each player has may be important in certain contexts, the presence of the World Bowls Stamp is fundamental to maintaining the integrity of the competition as it ensures that only approved equipment is used during play. This standardization helps avoid disputes and ensures that all players compete on a level playing field with regard to their equipment.