UNPREDICTABLE AFFAIR

New scoring format set to test bowlers resolve

IT will be interesting to watch whether the continent’s best bowlers will be able to adapt with the new scoring format being introduced for the first time in the Asian Games.

Shalin Zulkifli, a four-time Asian Games gold medallist, believes the new format will make bowling an unpredictable affair as keglers will earn 30 pins for every strike.

Bowling starts today with the trios event at the Jakabaring Centre in Palembang.

“This format has been used in selected ABF Tour tournaments for last three years. Bowlers will need to use different strategies to conquer the lanes and also to finish on the podium,” said the four-time national champion in Palembang yesterday.

“It could offer advantages to some bowlers but overall it will be tough.”

Each bowler will play a total of 10 frames (with no bonus frames) under the new format with 30 pins awarded for every strike. A spare will earn bowlers 10 pins plus the number of pins recorded in the first attempt.

“I believe hosts Indonesia, Taiwan, Singapore and Thailand could surprise the form book.

“We have been making changes to our approach and equipment, and also adapting to the oiling patterns and lanes since arriving here,” said Shalin, who led the women’s team to the world title in Las Vegas last year.

Two-time world champion Esther Cheah, Sin Li Jane, Siti Safiyah Amirah Abdul Rahman, Syaidatul Afifah Badrul Hamidi and Natasha Roslan make up the squad.

Team manager Maradona Chok said his bowlers will need to be consistent under the new format.

“Bowlers will have to record consistent scores in order to have a chance of winning a medal.

“It will be tough for them to bounce back from early setbacks during competition,” said Maradona.

Only six gold medals (men and women’s trios, team and masters) will be offered in bowling this time.