What to Look for When Buying a Cricket Bat
There are lot of things to look when buying but Cricket bat sizes is an important decision for any cricketer. It can mean the difference between a successful match and a disappointing one. Knowing the different cricket bat sizes available can help you make an informed choice when selecting the right bat for you. At the end of the day you have to select your own bat because you know what is best for your strengths, playing ability and game improvement.
In this blog post, we will explore the various cricket bat sizes and discuss the factors to consider when selecting the perfect bat. From the size of the bat to the material it is made from, we will look at everything you need to know about cricket bat sizes.
Different woods
There are two kind of woods which are specially used in the construction of wood. These woods are specially grown for the construction of bat.
1- Kashmir willow bats : These bats are heavier due to because they are hard and darker in nature. It is cheap and specially made for junior players and is not as expensive bat as the other willow bats.
Its quality is also not good as the English willow because the grain is not as straight or clear. These Kashmir willow bat offers good starting point to beginners to practice their skills and took their game onto the next level.
2- English willow bats : These willows are specially grown for making cricket bats. It is recommended for players who are professional and plays competitive cricket.
This willow wood is lighter and made of higher quality. So, if you want to buy English willow bat, be sure to check the quality with Grade 6 being of the lowest quality and Grade 1 with the highest quality.
Size Guide
Here is the complete table of cricket bat sizes in cm, junior cricket bat sizes.
| Bat Size | Height of Batsman | Bat Length | Bat Width | Approx. Age |
| 1 | Up to 4ft 3 inches | 25 ¼ inches | 3 ½ inches | 4-5 years old |
| 2 | 4ft 3”- 4ft 6” | 27 ¾ inches | 3 ½ inches | 6-7 years old |
| 3 | 4ft 6”- 4ft 9” | 28 ¾ inches | 3 ¾ inches | 8-9 years old |
| 4 | 4ft 9”- 4ft 11” | 29 ¾ inches | 3 ¾ inches | 9-10 years old |
| 5 | 4ft 11”- 5ft 2” | 30 ¾ inches | 4 inches | 10-11 years old |
| 6 | 5ft 2”- 5ft 5” | 31 ¾ inches | 4 inches | 11-13 years old |
| Harrow | 5ft 5”- 5ft 8” | 32 ¾ inches | 4 1/6 inches | 12-14 years old |
| Full size (short handle) | 5ft 8”- 6ft 3” | 33 ½ inches | 4 ¼ inches | 15+ years old |
| Full size (Long handle) | 6ft 3” and above | 34 3/8 inches | 4 ¼ inches | 15+ years old |
Size and weights of Cricket Bats
Cricket bat sizes in Australia come in a variety of sizes and are essential to any cricketer’s performance. When choosing the right cricket bat, it is important to consider the size as this will determine how comfortable the bat feels in your hands and how effective you can be with it. In Australia, cricket bats are typically measured in centimeters and come in a range of sizes, from the smallest junior sizes to adult sizes.
Bat Pick up
The pick up of a cricket bat refers to how heavy it feels when held in the hand. This is a very important factor to consider when buying a cricket bat, as the pick up can drastically affect your performance.
For beginners, it is important to choose a bat with a light pick up. This will make it easier for you to control the bat and will allow you to get used to the feel of the game. Once you have become more experienced, you may want to look for bats with a heavier pick up that offer more power.
When testing out a cricket bat, it is important to hold it in both hands and swing it gently. This will give you a good idea of how the pick up feels. If it feels too heavy or too light, then it is probably not the right choice for you.
Bat Shape
The shape of your cricket bat is a very important factor to consider when selecting the right size. A bat’s shape will determine how well it performs, and is based on the type of player you are.
Shapes
-Traditional Shape: This is the classic shape and is suitable for all-rounders, who play a variety of strokes and switch between defense and attack. It has an even curve from the toe to the top and is designed for increased balance.
-Semi-Oval Shape: This shape has slightly more curve than the traditional shape, allowing for increased power in shots. It also provides extra balance for players who prefer to hit with the front foot.
-Oval Shape: This bat has a large bow and a long sweet spot, making it ideal for powerful hitters and aggressive stroke makers.
-Round Shape: This is one of the rarest shapes and offers the most balance. It is suitable for players who like to play close to the ground and play a lot of defensive shots.
When selecting your bat shape, it is important to keep in mind that the shape should match your style of play. Each shape offers different benefits, so make sure you pick the right one for you.
Bat Finish
The finish of a cricket bat is one of the most important features to consider when choosing the right one for you. The finish of a bat can affect its performance and durability. There are two main types of finishes for cricket bats: oiled and lacquered.
Oiled Bats
These are usually made from lower quality willow and have a rougher, sanded finish. This type of finish makes the bat more flexible and provides better shock absorption.
It also gives the bat a greater chance of being broken in. However, an oiled bat requires more maintenance to keep it in top condition as it needs to be regularly oiled to prevent the wood from cracking or becoming brittle.
Lacquered Bats
Lacquered Bats are higher quality willow and are finished with a glossy lacquer. This finish makes the bat more rigid and increases the lifespan of the bat. A lacquered bat will require less maintenance as the lacquer provides extra protection against weathering and cracking. However, due to its rigidness, a lacquered bat may be harder to break in.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which finish is best for your playing style and needs. If you’re looking for a bat that is easier to break in, an oiled finish might be a better choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a bat that is durable and requires less maintenance, a lacquered bat may be the best option.
How much Bat size is important
Bat size is an important factor when purchasing a cricket bat. Different bat sizes have different effects on the playability of a bat, and it is important to select the right one for your needs.
A smaller bat may be best for younger players who need to learn proper technique and increase their power over time. Meanwhile, a larger bat can provide more power for experienced players.
When selecting a cricket bat size, you should consider factors such as your height, strength, and playing style. Generally, taller and stronger players will require larger bats while shorter and weaker players should opt for smaller bats. It is also important to consider how comfortable you are with the size of the bat. If you are not comfortable with a particular size, it is likely that it will affect your performance.
Ultimately, when selecting a cricket bat size, it is important to ensure that it fits your playing style and physical characteristics. By doing this, you will be able to maximize your performance and ensure that you have the best possible cricket experience.
