Bat Care Guide: The Basics

Are you new to the game or have just bought your child their first cricket bat? If so, there are a few things you should know about cricket bat care. By following some of the basic cricket bat care guidelines below, you have a better chance of keeping your cricket bat in tip-top shape for longe

However, we are honest souls and there are some harsh realities that you should be aware of when purchasing a cricket bat.

PREPARE FOR USE:

DO: With either a bat mallet or a ball and sock, knock-in the cricket bat for a minimum of six hours with greater force being progressively applied throughout the process. Don’t try to kill it though!

DO NOT: Make sure you do not use your new cricket bat straight away in a game or practice session unless it is a pre-prepared cricket bat (although some knocking in is still recommended). If you do not knock it in properly then the cricket bat will have a high risk of breaking. Do not just focus your attention on the middle of the bat; make sure you knock in the sides and toe of the blade.

ADDED PROTECTION:

DO: Gently apply a small amount of linseed oil on all parts of the cricket bat except the splice (the triangular pieces that connects the handle to the cricket bat’s main body), at least three times a season.

DO NOT: over-oil; this can really damage the blade. If you’re unsure then ask a more advanced cricketer at your club or send us an enquiry.

DO: Gently apply a small amount of linseed oil on all parts of the cricket bat except the splice (the triangular pieces that connects the handle to the cricket bat’s main body), at least three times a season.

STORAGE:

DO: Store in a cool, dry place, such as a shed or garage where a small amount of moisture can be absorbed from the atmosphere.

DO NOT: Store in areas that get hot (near radiators, boilers, windows, fire places etc). This causes the wood to dry out which can make it vulnerable to damage.

NO GUARANTEES:

PLEASE NOTE: Every delivery from the bowler that hits the toe or edge of the bat has a chance of breaking it. Even if you have followed the knocking-in process meticulously, bats are not designed to last forever: there is no guaranteed duration of time that a cricket bat will remain in full working order.

VARIABLES INCLUDE: The quality of the cricket bat, the weight of the cricket bat (weightier blades can often last longer than light ones) and the care in which the cricket bat is treated.

If you have purchased an English willow cricket bat or would like some more detailed information, please check out our Cricket Bat Care Guidelines for Experienced Cricketers.

So now you’ve read the basic cricket bat care guide, do you need a cricket bat, junior cricket bat, linseed oil, toe guard or bat mallet?

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