Statement from World Bowls & I.I.B.C.

With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) escalating globally over the last several weeks and even days, World Bowls Ltd and International Indoor Bowls Council, in conjunction with the host National Authority, English Indoor Bowls Association, have held meetings over the last 36 hours regarding the World Bowls Indoor Championships scheduled to be held in Bristol, England 0n April 20-24.

Due to numerous Countries placing restrictions on travel for their nationals and the fact that the United Kingdom Government have now moved to implement the ‘delay’ phase in relation to COVID-19  further to the ‘Containment’ phase, we wish to advise you that regretfully we will be postponing the event with immediate effect.

World Bowls Ltd and IIBC will continue to follow the guidance and directives of the Government and Public Health England before announcing whether the event is proposed to be re-scheduled in 2020.

In reaching this decision we are fully aware that athletes, officials and others may have made travel arrangements for this event, but our overriding concern must be for the health and welfare of the athletes, volunteers, administrators and spectators who would be involved.

The demographics of the sport and the potential unknown underlying health issues of athletes, volunteers, officials, administrators and spectators were also key factors in reaching this decision.

It is understood that all participants will be disappointed but trust that under the current circumstances it is appreciated by all concerned that this difficult decision has been made in the best interests of all parties.

Gary Smith, Chief Executive, World Bowls Ltd • David Phillips, Secretary, International Indoor Bowls Council