Picking the right size and weight of cricket bat is so important, don't leave it to chance.
Posted by Ben Barnes on
Whether you are buying a cricket bat for yourself or buying for your child, it is so important to get the size and weight of the bat correct. Cricket bats are made from Willow, of which there are a variety of types and quality that it will be hand made from. Indian Kashmir Willow, European Alternative Willow and English Willow are the main three and each has very different performance, pick-up (balance and feel) and price.
All cricket bats are traditionally made from willow wood, specifically from a variety of White Willow called Cricket Bat Willow specifically because of their
- Protective function : Bats are treated with raw (unboiled) linseed oil, which has a protective function.
- Strength: This variety of willow is used as it is very tough and shock-resistant, not being significantly dented nor splintering on the impact of a cricket ball at high speed, while also being light in weight.
Kashmir Willow bats are the cheapest, tending to be heavier and durable but don't hit the ball as well as English Willow which are lighter and have more moisture in the wood which gives more spring and power to your shots.
All bats will have different "pick-ups". How the bat feels when you are waiting for the bowler to come in. Light pick up or heavy depends on the balance and profile of the blade of the bat. This is a very personal preference and something we can help with as our trial hitting area, "The Cage" in-store allows you to go and have a test of the bats on the shelf. We can size you or your child up individually and help assess if the bat is not only the right size but the right weight, too heavy can really hinder good play.
Picking out as many bats from the rack and taking them through to The Cage is really important. Give yourself the time to try the bats so you can leave the the perfect cricket bat for you! We offer a knocking-in service for all our cricket bats bought in-store or online. Preparing your bat for use needs time, patience and needs to be done well to get the most out of your new bat. Oiling and knocking in of the bat is important.