How to Choose the Right Cricket Bat for Yourself

Choosing the Right Cricket Bat for Yourself

Choosing a cricket bat is one of the most important decisions any cricketer, whether beginner or seasoned pro will make. To us cricket lovers, it feels like the ultimate decision for a summer of love, that means cricket!

The right bat can elevate your game, improve your confidence at the crease and ensure you get the most enjoyment out of every innings. With so many brands, shapes, sizes and specifications on the market, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. In this world of social media and information all round, its so hard to know who is right and who is not so right.

At VKS, we've spent over 50 years helping players of all ages and abilities find their perfect bat. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know so you can make an informed, confident choice, one that's right for you, not just for the marketing hype. We're not saying we will tell you which model or bat to by, we are here to give you some key pointers so that you ultimately make that all important decision for yourself.

1. Understanding English Willow: The Foundation of Every Bat

Let's start with a common misconception, not all cricket bats are created equal. However, when it comes to English willow bats the gold standard for serious cricketers, there's one thing they all share, the source material is the same, or at least it should be.

All English willow cricket bats are made from the same species of willow (Salix alba caerulea). This variety is prized for its unique combination of lightness and strength, making it perfect for the demands of cricket.

This type of willow is grown solely in the UK and in specific parts of the country that ensure the tree is grown in the correct manner. The growing process is a delicate and extremely meticulous one, with every tree pruned and trimmed every six months, as well as being monitored to ensure it's growing correctly.

Once it's fully grown, the tree is cut and made into clefts. Each cleft (the raw piece of willow that becomes a bat) is checked, cut and graded before it's made into a bat.

What differs however, is how each bat brand crafts and shapes their bats. The art of bat making lies in the hands of skilled craftsmen who shape, press and finish the willow to bring out its best performance characteristics.

That's why two bats from different brands made from the same willow can feel, perform and play very differently. Each bat maker and brand will have their own way in which to shape a bat, make a bat and press a bat. Each brand feels they have the perfect process and in all reality they do.

2. Bat Shapes and Profiles: The Subtle Differences That Matter

When you pick up a bat, you might notice differences in the shape of the blade, the thickness of the edges, the curvature (bow) and the position of the "middle" (the sweet spot), as well as the shape of the toe. Some models have square toes whilst others have a more round shape.

Low Middle vs. High Middle: What's the Difference?

Low Middle Bats:

• The thickest part of the bat (the "middle") is closer to the toe.
• Suits players who play on the front foot, driving the ball.
• Ideal for pitches that have a low bounce.
• Example: Many subcontinental players prefer low middle bats due to pitch conditions.

High Middle Bats:

• The middle is positioned higher up the blade, closer to the bat stickers.
• Best for players who play off the back foot and like to cut or pull.
• Suitable for bouncier wickets or for those who find themselves playing a lot of short-pitched bowling.

Some brands offer bats with a mid-middle, aiming for a balance between front and back foot play.

Blade and Handle Variations

Standard Blade & Handle:

• The vast majority of senior bats are "Short Handle" (SH). This size suits most adult players up to and even just over, 6ft tall.

Long Handle (LH) and Long Blade (LB):

• For players over 6ft, there are options like Long Handle, Long Blade and even Long Blade with Long Handle (LBLH) for those extra tall players.
• These bats are also suitable for older players who may not like to bend down so much when batting due to back issues. Longer Blade bats certainly help with this.
• Not all brands offer these sizes, and those that do usually have limited models.

Slightly Shorter Blade, Longer Handle:

• These are also referred to as Short Handle bats.
• Some brands, like GM, have innovated by making bats with a slightly shorter blade and a longer handle. These are known as 540mm blade bats, as opposed to 555mm blade which is the usual blade length.
• This maintains the overall length but shifts the balance, allowing for lighter bats and improved pick-up especially useful for players who value speed and manoeuvrability.

3. Size Matters: Choosing the Correct Bat Length

Senior Bats

Short Handle (SH):

• Over 95% of senior bats sold are short handle.
• Suits players up to around 6ft in height, sometimes even slightly taller.
• Comfortable grip and control for most adult players.

Long Handle (LH) and Long Blade (LB):

• For players above 6ft these options provide extra reach and leverage.
• Availability is limited, so it's important to check which brands and models offer these.

Junior Bats

Correct Sizing for Juniors:

• For young players, correct bat size is crucial for both performance and injury prevention.
• A bat that's too long or too heavy can hinder technique and confidence.
• At VKS we always recommend juniors are measured instore to ensure the right fit.
• Whilst the temptation to buy a bat that you can grow into is strong please remember a bigger bat will also be heavier, which can affect how you play the ball and lead to muscle strain around the elbow area.

4. Weight, Balance, and Pick-Up: The Feel of the Bat

One of the most misunderstood aspects of cricket bats is weight. Many players focus on the "scale weight" (the actual weight in grams or pounds), but what's more important is how the bat feels in your hands, known as the "pick-up."

Pick-Up:

• Determined by how the weight is distributed through the bat.
• A well-balanced bat can feel lighter than it actually is.
• Factors like the position of the middle, thickness of the edges and handle length all play a role.

Lighter Bats:

• Easier to manoeuvre, especially for juniors, women, or players who rely on timing and placement.
• Some bats use shorter blades and longer handles to achieve a lighter pick-up without sacrificing power.

Heavier Bats:

• Offer more power, especially for big hitters.
• Can be harder to control for those with less strength or less experience.

Our advice at VKS: Always pick up a bat before buying. What feels right for one player may not suit another, even if the bats are identical on paper.

5. Brands and Models: What Sets Them Apart?

At VKS, we stock a wide range of cricket bats from the world's leading brands, including:

• Adidas
• Gray-Nicolls
• Gunn & Moore (GM)
• Kookaburra
• New Balance
• CA
• Chase
• Infinity
• EM
• Salix
• SF Stanford
• SG
• SS Ton

Each brand has its unique approach to shaping, pressing and finishing their bats. Some focus on traditional profiles, while others innovate with new shapes, weight distributions, and handle technologies.

Not all brands offer every size or shape. For example, long blade and long handle bats are only available from select brands and in limited models. GM for instance are known for their innovative blade and handle combinations that improve balance and pick-up and they do not make Long Blade bats, neither do Gray-Nicolls. Both of these brands do Long Handle only and even these bats are limited to one or two models. SS Ton and Infinity however do a large range of Long Blade bats.

6. Options for Female Cricketers: More Choice Than Ever

Women's cricket is growing rapidly and bat manufacturers have responded with more options designed specifically for female players.

Small Adult Bats:

• Lighter but generally the same size as standard adult bats.
• Easier to manoeuvre, allowing for better control and faster bat speed.
• At VKS we recommend female cricketers consider Small Adult models for the best balance of size and weight.

Specialist Ranges:

• Gray-Nicolls offers the Gem range, designed for women and girls.
• GM's Delta range is another excellent option, with models tailored for female players.

The key is to choose a bat that feels comfortable and suits your playing style, rather than being swayed by marketing or sponsorship deals.

7. Don't Fall for Sponsorship Gimmicks

It's tempting to be swayed by sponsorship and brand ambassador deals. Some companies offer big discounts if you use their brand, but this shouldn't be your main consideration as very often these products are being offered at over inflated prices with the promise of 30% and 40% sponsorship and ambassador discounts. Even after the discounts, we feel they are too expensive for what you are getting so be aware!

Buy on Merit, Not Marketing:

• The best bat for you is the one that feels right in your hands and suits your style, not the one with the biggest discount or the flashiest logo.
• Focus on comfort, balance and pick-up above all else.

Try Before You Buy:

• Whenever possible, visit a reputable store where you can handle different bats and get expert advice.
• At VKS our team has decades of experience and is always happy to help you find your perfect match.

8. Buy from a Trusted, Authorised Retailer

With so many options available online, it's more important than ever to buy from a reputable retailer. One that shows their full business address and landline telephone number on their website. You are spending your hard earnt money with them, you need to know they will be there if you have a problem with your purchase. Its just reassuring!

Why Buy from VKS?

• Over 50 years of experience in cricket equipment.
• Authorised stockists for all major brands.
• Expert advice tailored to your needs.
• Warranty and after sales support.
• In store services like bat knocking-in and repairs.

What to Check:

• Make sure the retailer is an authorised stockist.
• Ask about guarantees and after sales support.
• Avoid "too good to be true" deals from unknown sellers. You don't want to buy a fake now do you and trust me we unfortunately see a lot of them being offered for sale.

9. Essential In-Store Services: Knocking-In and Repairs

A new cricket bat needs to be properly prepared before use. This process, known as "knocking-in" compresses the fibres of the willow and helps prevent damage.

Knocking-In:

• Essential for all new bats, even those labelled "pre-knocked-in."
• At VKS we offer a range of bat knocking-in and repair services.
• Proper preparation can add years to your bat's life.

Repairs:

Even the best bats can suffer damage.
• Trust experienced professionals for repairs to ensure the bat's performance and longevity.

10. Junior Players: Start Right, Play with Confidence

For young cricketers, the right bat can make all the difference.

Correct Sizing:

• Measure juniors to ensure they use the correct size.
• The bat should be light enough for them to play with confidence and develop proper technique.

Other Equipment:

• Don't forget pads, gloves, helmets, and footwear, all essential for safety and performance.

Expert Advice:

• At VKS we're always happy to advise parents and young players on the best options.

11. Final Checklist: How to Choose Your Bat

Here's a quick checklist to help guide your decision:

1. Choose the right type of willow:
     • English willow for serious players.
2. Pick the correct size:
     • Short Handle for most adults.
     • Long Handle or Long Blade for taller players.
     • Correct junior size for young cricketers.
3. Consider weight and pick-up:
     • Choose what feels comfortable, not just what the scales say.
4. Look at the middle position:
     • Low for front foot, high for back foot or mid for all-round play.
5. Try before you buy:
     • Always handle the bat first if possible.
6. Buy from a reputable retailer:
     • Ensure they're authorised and offer after-sales support.
7. Don't get swayed by sponsorships:
     • Choose a bat that suits you, not just a big name.

12. Why VKS is Your Best Choice for Cricket Bats

At VKS, we understand that every player is unique. Our aim is to provide you with expert advice, the widest selection of bats, and in-store services that ensure your bat is ready to perform from day one.

• Visit us in-store at 31 Bond Street, Ealing, London W5 5AS or browse online at www.vks.com.
• Contact our expert team on +44 (0)20 8579 3389 for advice or to book a knocking-in service.

Whether you're a junior just starting out, a club player looking to upgrade, or a professional seeking the perfect blade, VKS has the knowledge, experience, and stock to help you play your best cricket.