For every batsman, there is one true companion that cannot be replaced, and that is the bat. Cricket bat is not like any game apparatus, it comes in different features and forms. Therefore, in every game, a bat caters in every batting delivery and overall unleashes any batsman’s playing potential on the cricket pitch. In connection to it, we will delve into the interesting world of cricket bats, exploring the different types used by batsmen, across various formats of cricket sport. Also check out insights on cricket balls and weight of cricket ball in different cricket forms.
If you are into this content, make sure you stay tuned with us as we reveal to everyone the different types of cricket bats and other information related to them that should not be overlooked.
Here are the different types of cricket bats
In this section, we aim to reveal the types of cricket bats that have been used in every cricket game or competition.
English Willow
This bat comes originally from England roots and is most used by foreign cricketers for different great reasons. The English willow bat is notable for giving toughness and contracting abilities. These features alone make this cricket bat a desirable equipment for any inspiring and professional batsman due to the qualities it carries. English willow bat has a distinguished color and is renowned due to its white color it owns. So far, the wood used for this cricket bat is native to England known as the English Willow trees. Therefore, it is no surprise why the English willow cricket bat is pricier to buy than other bats we will be discussing later.
Kashmiri Willow
From its name, you would guess what mood this cricket bat is made of. You got it right; it is composed of Kashmiri wood from India or Pakistan. The wood used for this cricket bat is called the tree of willow. The Kashmiri willow bat is known for its unfailing use and the brownish color it carries once used. This cricket bat is distinct from the other types of cricket bats since it is handmade. Since it is hand-crafted, the cost of this bat is a bit pricey and most of all exceptionally lightweight once held. Nevertheless, the Kashmiri Willow cricket bat is unique due to the discussed qualities.
Softball Cricket Bats
The softball cricket bat is only utilized for local or gully cricket and not for international cricket competitions. This cricket bat from its name can find out its main compositions. As you may have already guessed, the bat is built from soft rubber and premium wood or fiber. This makes this cricket bat less pricey than the two previous bats we discussed earlier. It can be used by children and anyone to play cricket sport in the home backyard or an open space. Because of this, it is a kid-friendly tool for improving one’s cricket capabilities. However, none of the professional cricketers utilize it, and that makes this cricket bat a tool for ordinary cricket players.
Training Cricket Bats
Training cricket bats is mainly used to build up, develop, and enhance anyone’s cricket playing skills. However, in terms of its composition, there is no specific wood or material it uses. Therefore, it can be made up of English Willow or Kashmir Willow, as its main function is for training purposes only. This cricket bat can be in different formats in terms of its size and width. Nevertheless, it is useful as cricket equipment to use in the training phase for batting purposes, and coaches get the advantage of using it. Therefore, this is one of the types of cricket bats that are heavily used in professional cricket as learning equipment.
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What are the different types of cricket bat grips?
In this section, we will name a few cricket bat grips that are commonly implemented by every cricketer, here are the following examples of them.
The V-Grip
It is the most widely used grip in the cricket sport. Since it simply involves forming a “V-Shape” using your thumb and index finger. With the handle pressing against the base of your fingers. Many batsmen utilize this batting approach since it offers control over the ball and provides effective hitting.
O’ Shaped Technique
For the “O-Shape” grip, a Batman must use all fingers of its bottom hand to hold the bat assertively. The ‘O’-shaped grip is mostly employed grip for cross-batted shots as it is harder to hit vertically because it counts on the bottom hand. However, keep in mind it may impair a player’s ability on the off-side and one must be careful in implementing this cricket grip.
Knott Grip
The Knott grip is one way to effectively handle the quick-moving and bouncing balls. To use this cricket bat grip, you should start by forming a “V-shape” and then rotate the bat so that the back of your top hand corresponds with the back of your bottom hand. Employers of this grip must take note that it has limits on arm extension that can impact the hitting effectiveness.
Donald Bradman’s Grip
To implement this cricket bat grip, a cricket player needs to implement first the “V’ – shape” grip. Once the ‘V’ grip has been executed, then rotate your bottom hand under the bat. Your top hand should next be rotated with your wrist directly behind the bat, and that is how it entirely works once applied.
Open Face Batting Grip
This cricket bat grip is an uncommon one and has only been used when in the middle of the match to score runs at a quicker scale. The open-face batting grip is less used as a grip and heavily depends on the approach of doing it. This batting grip requires its executors to slightly rotate his bat towards offside when the bowler is tending to be balling. However, it cannot be implemented all the time, it must only be used if it is essential to hit workers for boundaries.
How IPL has improved cricket bat technology?
The Indian Premier League has served as a launching place for innovative and modern cricket bat designs. With the evolving nature of the IPL tournament and the popularity has affected the cricket bat. Thus, manufacturers use cutting-edge technology to create high-quality bats.
One of the most significant technological developments is the utilization of sophisticated materials such as carbon fiber and composite materials. These materials provide increased strength and durability. Further, enabling for the development of strong and long-lasting bats.
In addition to materials, manufacturers have concentrated on improving bat design using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This technology allows for perfect customization of bat forms and sizes, adapting to the specific needs of each player. Manufacturers can use CAD software to enhance the performance characteristics of each bat, offering players with custom equipment that fits their playing style.
International cricket bat size
Based on the ICC regulations, the overall length of a cricket bat must not be over 38 inches or 96.52cm. This bat measurement includes the handle, blade, and any other attachments. To begin with its measurements, its blade length should be a maximum of 22.05 inches or 56 cm. While the blade width should not exceed 4.25 inches or 10.8 cm.
Whereas, the handle length should at least be 10.5 inches or 26.67 cm. Moreover, the maximum authorized weight of a cricket bat should be 3 lb. 5 oz or 55 kg. Lastly, the grip of the bat should cover at least 8 inches or 20.32 cm of the handle. Overall, that is the sum of the allowable cricket bat size under the international rules of the ICC (International Cricket Council).
The best cricket bats for leather ball
In this part, we will list the best cricket bats to be used for leather balls. We will provide a list of them so you will know which bat applies to leather balls. To proceed with the naming, here are cricket bat names that you should know accordingly.
- SG Sierra Plus Kashmir Willow Bat
- SS Dhoni Profile Grade 1 English Willow Bat
- DSC Scorer Kashmir Willow Bat
- RMP CEAT Cricket bat Kashmir Willow Bat
- GM Noir 202 Kashmir Willow Bat
- RMP MRF Cricket bat Kashmir Willow Bat
- DSC Condor Sizzler Kashmir Willow Bat
- DSC Intense Force Kashmir Willow Bat
- Kookaburra Adult Cricket Bat
- SG Scorer Classic Kashmir Willow Bat
Conclusion:
By understanding the different types of cricket bats, players can choose the bat that best complements their overall cricket skills, and playing styles, and thus allows them to maximize their performance while on the cricket field. Nevertheless, we hope that this guide about cricket bats helps you understand their overall functionality, compositions, and application once used in playing the cricket sport. We wish you all the best in choosing the best cricket bat for your playing needs.