Tenpin Bowling Australia has officially adopted the new urethane regulation introduced by the International Bowling Federation.
In a statement published on March 2, TBA confirmed that it will immediately apply the 78D urethane hardness standard for all TBA National Ranked Events. The decision follows the recent IBF directive regarding updated specifications for urethane bowling balls.
Under the new rule, urethane balls used in TBA National Ranked Events must be manufactured with a minimum hardness of 78D. In addition, the equipment must be approved under the updated IBF guideline. TBA has provided access to a list of bowling balls that are no longer permitted at Ranked Events.
In line with IBF policy, random hardness checks may take place during competition. Any ball that measures below 72D during testing will be considered non-compliant and removed from play.
The regulation takes effect starting with the Kegel QLD Open at Caboolture and will apply to all future TBA National Ranked Events.
TBA also confirmed additional changes for Ranked Events in 2026.
Athletes are limited to a maximum of six bowling balls, which must be listed on a registration form submitted at check-in. Also, cleaning or resurfacing of equipment is not allowed after the first ball of a squad has been thrown.
The new urethane rule does not apply to league bowling. Equipment used in league play must only appear on the current USBC Approved Ball list.
For tournaments outside the TBA National Ranked Event structure, organizers may choose to adopt the 78D urethane requirement during the accreditation process.
