Cricket bats are the key tool used in cricket other than the ball. Bats are described as paddle-shaped, flat on one side but V-shaped on the opposite side. This is said to improve airflow around the bats making them swing faster and with more power.
The material bats are made from is willow wood, this is the wood of choice for the bats because it is tough, lightweight, and shock-resistant. The bats are also treated with linseed oil, this is used to provide additional protection and also creates more friction on the ball giving batters more control while playing cricket.
Proper Care of a New Bat
When purchasing new cricket bats it is imperative that proper care is taken to ensure the bat is well prepared for the game of cricket to last a great deal of time. Before a brand new cricket bat is ever used it should be knocked in. The process of knocking a bat in is done by hitting the bat with either a cricket ball repeatedly are using a special cricket mallet. The process of knocking in a cricket bat will compact the fibers in the willow wood making it stronger, so when it first used it will not break.
Process of Knocking
The process of knocking in can take anything from 3 to 6 hours and will often consist of the bat being hit 8000 to 9000 times. Pre-knocked bats are available on the market at a slightly higher price but this saves the time of the player having to knock the bat in, installing confidence when playing that the bat will stand up to the task in hand.
Law 6 of cricket says that cricket bats must be no more than 97 centimeters in length and no more than 10.8 centimeters in width. Importantly it states that the hand holding the bat is considered part of the bat, therefore the hand hits the ball it counts as a hit. Also, the rule states that bats may be made of no material other than wood.
Things You Need to Consider
When selecting the type of cricket bats you wish to use you must carefully consider the type of player you are, whether it is a big hitter or someone who likes to pick and choose their strokes while batting. Also, you must consider the size and weight of the cricket bats for sale as all too often player's performances are hindered by picking a bat the is too small or large or that weighs too much. It is recommended that a lighter bat be used, especially at a young age, to help with the control of the ball when playing.