Buying a cricket bat is an important investment for a cricketer playing at any level of the game. By taking into account some basic considerations, buying a bat to suit the style and talent of the player can be accomplished.
Wood Grades of Cricket Bat
The majority of cricket bats are made from the soft fibrous wood, English willow. Comprising a honeycomb cell structure, its natural moisture is conducive to pressing during manufacture and provides bats with a spring like striking capability. Willow is graded in the production of cricket bats.
Grade 1Plus – G1+
The best English willow providing straight even grain with extremely minimal marking of the bat face. Unbleached. Produces high quality bats to the level required for a professional cricketer.
Grade 1 – G2
High quality English willow with straight grain and minimal marking. Unbleached. Produces quality bats for the experienced amateur player.
Grade 2 - G2
English willow with irregular grain. Unbleached. Minor blemishes and prone to reddening of bat face.
Grade 3 – G3
English willow with irregular grain. Usually unbleached. Some marking and discolouration of bat face.
Grade 4 – G4
English willow. Tendency to be bleached. Sometimes non oil with a covering to the bat face.
Size of Cricket Bat
Size of bat is important. The wrong size bat will limit power and stroke of the player. A general guide for the adult player is listed below:
Height 4’11” to 5’2” - Bat Size 5
Height 5’3” to 5’4” – Bat Size 6
Height 5’4” to 5’5” – Harrow Bat
Height 5’6” to 5’9” – Academy Bat
Height 5’9” and above – Full Size
Weight of Cricket Bat
The position of the player in the batting order should be taken into consideration when choosing an appropriate bat weight. A lighter bat for stroke makers with hitters looking to the heavier option can be taken as a general rule.
Opening Bat
2lbs 7ozs – 2lbs 9ozs. A lighter bat aids reaction time to the new ball. The quicker reaction of the lighter bat could mean the difference between a thin and thick outside edge.
Batting 3 or 4
2lbs 8ozs – 2lbs 9ozs. A slightly heavier bat aids more aggressive strokeplay without forsaking balance and reaction time.
Batting 5, 6, 7 and lower order
2lbs 10ozs and above. Heavier bat suited to middle order hitters. Full value for shots and miss hits likely to clear the infield.
Sweet Spot on a Cricket Bat
The sweet spot refers to the area of the bat where the largest amount of power is generated, the area where the greatest reward for the shot is achieved.
Normal Sweet Spot
Approximately 4” to 12” from toe. Suitable for the player with a full range of shots.
Low Sweet Spot
Approximately 3” to 11” from toe. Suitable for the player that favours the drive and aggressive in nature. Suitable for pitches with low bounce.
High Sweet Spot
Approximately 5” to 11” from toe. Suitable for opening bat and player who plays off the back foot. Suitable for player who hooks, pulls or cuts regularly.
Maintenance of a Cricket Bat
Once the appropriate bat has been purchased, maintenance is important in maintaining bat quality.
Things To Do For Cricket Bat Maintenance
- Prepare bat by oiling and knocking in.
- In close season store bat away from heat / damp in cool / dry atmosphere.
- Re apply oil before pre season nets or after long period of inactivity.
- Inspect bat for damage and repair promptly.
Things Not To Do For Cricket Bat Maintenance
- Expose to temperature extremes.
- Allow bat to become damp.
- Oil excessively.
- Leave for prolonged period in car boot / trunk.
- Continue playing when damaged.
Buying a Cricket Bat
Cricket bats are available to suit the player of any standard, technique or budget. Choosing an appropriate one will add confidence and enjoyment and bring greater reward to all players of the summer game.
Resources
Owzat Cricket
Dream Cricket
