Craftsmen strive to merge durability and hitting power when making cricket bats. This compromise is not an easy one. After a bat is bought, there are certain maintenance tips that will maximize the life of the bat.
Willow wood is what is used in the making of a bat. Soft pressed wood gives excellent hitting power; however, it is more apt to crack. Durability comes from hard pressed wood, but the hitting power is decreased.
New cricket players who are just beginning should start with a light weight bat. As experience and knowledge of the game increases, the player can begin to switch to a heavier bat. Athlete body size and stance will dictate the bat size needed.
Purchasing the bat is only the first step. The bat then has to be prepared before it can be used in a game. A light sanding and a couple coats of linseed oil on the face and toe are necessary. The oil keeps water from finding its way into the wood, which would cause swelling of the wood.
One process that is necessary to prevent damage and cracking to a new bat is called knocking. The athlete needs to take this process seriously because it takes several hours to do it correctly. Using an old, soft ball to bounce against the face, or by using a bat mallet to pound the face - knocking compresses the willow fibers. This knits the fibers together to prevent ball damage during the game. Make sure to round the face edges before playing. It should never be stored near a heat source, but it should be stored in a dark, dry place.
The craftsman begins the life of cricket bats. The athlete then takes over by oiling and knocking the bat into shape. Minor imperfections can be fixed after a game by sanding and oiling. The maintenance and dedicated care of the bat will result in a long last relationship between the athlete and his bat.
Willow wood is what is used in the making of a bat. Soft pressed wood gives excellent hitting power; however, it is more apt to crack. Durability comes from hard pressed wood, but the hitting power is decreased.
New cricket players who are just beginning should start with a light weight bat. As experience and knowledge of the game increases, the player can begin to switch to a heavier bat. Athlete body size and stance will dictate the bat size needed.
Purchasing the bat is only the first step. The bat then has to be prepared before it can be used in a game. A light sanding and a couple coats of linseed oil on the face and toe are necessary. The oil keeps water from finding its way into the wood, which would cause swelling of the wood.
One process that is necessary to prevent damage and cracking to a new bat is called knocking. The athlete needs to take this process seriously because it takes several hours to do it correctly. Using an old, soft ball to bounce against the face, or by using a bat mallet to pound the face - knocking compresses the willow fibers. This knits the fibers together to prevent ball damage during the game. Make sure to round the face edges before playing. It should never be stored near a heat source, but it should be stored in a dark, dry place.
The craftsman begins the life of cricket bats. The athlete then takes over by oiling and knocking the bat into shape. Minor imperfections can be fixed after a game by sanding and oiling. The maintenance and dedicated care of the bat will result in a long last relationship between the athlete and his bat.
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If you need more advice oncricket bats visit you local cricket shop and speak to a salesman, the should be able to fill you in on the rest.
Such a well put article. It proved really helpful. I just ordered new balance cricket bats from their website for my brother, read some really great things about it online
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