Hong Kong Classic pairs: groups and three-bowl match format explained

The 2026 Hong Kong Classic pairs competition runs from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 November, following the completion of the singles.

The Irish Bowls Federation’s official guide describes two groups of 12 teams in each of the men’s and women’s events. Teams play a round robin, with the top four in each group progressing to the knockout stages.

Matches use three-bowl pairs and two sets of nine ends, with a two-and-a-half-hour time limit. A three-end tie-break set is used when required in the knockout rounds.

In the men’s draw, Ireland, England, Scotland and South Africa are in Group B; Australia and New Zealand are in Group A. See the full official men’s and women’s group graphics and format guide.