Choosing the right cricket bat for your needs or your child’s needs can be a difficult decision. There are numerous options to choose from, which can make it a time-consuming process. You are likely wondering which cricket bat will last the longest, perform the best, and which will provide you with the best value for money.
When you are searching for a cricket bat there are some considerations to think about. For example, the height of the person you are choosing the bat for, the level of expertise they are at, and the weight of the bat. Once you have thought about this information, you will better be able to choose the perfect bat for your needs. Below we delve a little deeper into how to choose a cricket bat.
Be Sure About Your Budget
The very first step in choosing your new bat is to set a budget. This will help you to narrow down all possible option based on price-point, allowing you to see what you can truly afford. Price should not be the only determining factor, but it should certainly be considered as a starting point.
Your budget should also include the different brands on offer, as some international brands might be more expensive than others. However, these prices are warranted due to the high quality of the cricket bats on offer, so do not be deterred and choose based solely on price point. Look at the qualities of each bat in terms of your needs and requirements.
The Height of The Player
Whether you are choosing a cricket bat for an adult or a child, the height of the player is one of the most important aspects to consider. The bat should never be too long or too heavy for the player to pick up, as they will not be able to pick it up or use it correctly. The player height and cricket bat size ratios could be as follows:
- Full Size /Short Handle – 1.73m & over
- Harrow – 1.63m – 1.72m
- 6 – 1.57m – 1.63m
- 5 – 1.50m – 1.57m
- 4 – 1.44m – 1.5m
- 3 – 1.37m – 1.44m
- 2 – 1.29m – 1.37m
- 1 – 1.22m – 1.29m
- 0 – 1.10m – 1.22m
- 00 – Up to 1.10m
Older players or taller players should ideally be using a size 6, a Harrow, a full-size or a short-handle bat. If your child is still growing, be sure to choose a Harrow so that they will not outgrow the bat too quickly.
The Bat’s Weight
The weight of your cricket bat is also an important aspect to consider. It should always be considered parallel to the height of the player as these can both have a significant impact on how the bat is used. You can test the weight of the bat by holding it out straight in front of you. If you can do this comfortably without any stress, then the weight is right for you.
Junior cricketers should opt for lighter bats so that they do not struggle to lift and use them, but a bat that is too light may also be detrimental to their game. Personal preference also plays a part, as some established cricket players prefer a bat that is heavier and that has a larger middle for more accurate batting. For players just starting out, a lighter bat for a certain period of time will help them to acclimatise to using a bat.
Consider The Style Of Play
Cricket bat manufacturers often create bats with different profiles, edges, scallops, sweet spots, and other features. These change how the bat is shaped and thus change the performance of the player. It can be highly difficult to choose a bat using these features, which is why you should speak to a bat specialist for help.
Modern cricket bats have a “sweet spot” which is an area on the bat where the willow is thicker than at any other point, making the ball travel faster and higher when hit with this area. You should also consider whether you are playing T20s, ODIs, or Tests when choosing a bat, as many cricket bat manufacturers create bats with these in mind.
For those who are looking for the perfect cricket bat for their next big game, feel free to drop Cricket Warehouse a line and see how we can help you.
Originally published on Cricket Warehouse.