What should be done when a jack touches an object or person outside the boundaries?

When a jack touches an object or person outside the boundaries, the correct procedure is to replace the jack to its original position. This ensures that the integrity of the game is maintained and that the jack remains in a designated area where it can be fairly contested by the players. The rules of bowls stipulate that if the jack is disturbed in such a manner, it must be restored to where it was last delivered.

This action upholds the principles of fair play, as allowing the game to continue without correcting the jack's position would lead to confusion and potential disputes regarding the outcomes of the end. Similarly, allowing players to decide its placement could lead to inconsistent practices and subjective judgments that might favor one side over another. Declaring the end void is typically reserved for more severe interruptions in play. Therefore, replacing the jack to its original position is the appropriate and established procedure in this scenario.