Stan Meale, a regular in City Oval’s top division, says the standard of competition in Ballarat District Bowls Division could be improved by reducing the current 16-player format.

Meale raised the issue with The Courier, saying 12-player sides were currently a hotly debated subject and, in his personal opinion, would make for a tougher pennant and a better spectacle.

“There are many bowlers playing at this level that in reality are only there perhaps because their club has a side in the premier comp or they are the best available to fill the spot, and there is a way to change all of this,” he said.

Meale said state sides had already adopted the 12-player format and he believed there was support for the option at division level.

Meale said clubs were currently “on the merry go round” of promotion and relegation from premier division as their sides were not strong enough to compete in the top division.

“These clubs have difficulty attracting top line bowlers and any of those who show great ability often get an offer from a club that can afford to pay for services,” Meale said.

“Many clubs would find it much easier to make a pretty strong side from their available top division whereas finding 16 can be difficult.

“The four players who do not make the top division or divisions at a club will strengthen the competition’s lower grades.”

Meale said under a 12-player format, clubs with premier and division one sides could fit both on the same green if drawn at home.