Kookaburra Nickel 6.2 Ultra Cricket Bat
Overview
The Kookaburra Nickel 6.2 Ultra Cricket Bat offers an excellent balance of performance and value, making it ideal for developing players or those looking for a high-quality bat without stepping into the ultra-premium bracket. Crafted from Grade 6.2 unbleached English willow, the bat features a full-profile design with a low sweet spot, and is pre-prepared for quicker use out of the box.
Features
- Grade 6.2 unbleached English willow for a quality feel and dependable performance.
- Full-profile blade with strong edges (approx. 30-34 mm) for added hitting power.
- Low sweet spot (approx. 130–170 mm from the toe) to favour front-foot stroke play.
- Short handle length (857 mm) offering better control and balance.
- Grid grip for a secure hold and comfortable handling.
- Pre-prepared finish means the bat has been knocked-in by the manufacturer, reducing initial preparation time.
Design and Materials
The bat is constructed using unbleached Grade 6.2 English willow, giving it a clean and natural finish. Its full-profile design means the spine and edges are prominent, providing a strong hitting zone. The low sweet spot design helps front-foot players drive and play aggressively. The short handle improves manoeuvrability, making it well-suited for players who emphasise timing and precision. The rounded face and edge profiles provide a more forgiving feel and enhanced control through impact.
Key Technologies
Grade 6.2 Willow: A selection of unbleached English willow with moderate grains—providing reliable performance at a more accessible price point.
Low Sweet Spot Profile: The sweet spot sits low (approx. 130-170 mm from the toe) to favour front-foot drives and maximise impact across the face of the bat.
Kookaburra Pre-Prepared (KPP): The bat comes pre-knocked-in by the manufacturer, reducing break-in time and making it ready for use sooner.
Short Handle (857 mm): A slightly shorter handle improves balance and pick-up, especially helpful for players who favour timing over brute force.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Willow Grade |
Grade 6.2 unbleached English Willow |
| Sweet Spot |
Low, approx. 130-170 mm from toe |
| Edge Thickness |
Approx. 30-34 mm |
| Spine Height |
Approx. 60-62 mm |
| Bow |
Approx. 10-12 mm |
| Handle Type |
Short Handle (857 mm), Oval |
| Grip Style |
Grid Grip |
| Finish |
Kookaburra Pre-Prepared (KPP) |
| Weight Range |
2lb 8oz (1135g) – 2lb 10oz (1200g) approx. |
VKS Review
For players seeking a dependable bat that offers solid all-round performance without venturing into ultra-high budgets, the Nickel 6.2 Ultra is a great choice. The combination of a low sweet spot and full profile edges means you get good hitting potential, especially on the front foot. The short handle provides agile manoeuvrability, making it easier to play strokes square of the wicket. Being pre-prepared also means less time spent preparing the bat and more time practising and playing. While the willow grade isn’t top-tier compared with elite player-series bats, it delivers strong value and good durability for club or serious amateur level. With proper care and occasional re-oiling, it should serve as a reliable match bat through multiple seasons.
Q&A Section
Q: Is this bat suitable for both front-foot and back-foot play?
A: Yes, the Nickel 6.2 Ultra has a low sweet spot which favours front-foot play, but the full profile and good edge thickness give it enough capability for well-timed back-foot strokes too.
Q: Do I need to knock this bat in myself?
A: It’s essential to give it full knocking-in around the face, toe and edges to maximise longevity and avoid damage.
Q: What weight should I choose?
A: The typical weight range for this model is 2lb 8oz to 2lb 10oz. Choose a weight that feels comfortable to control and swing with confidence rather than purely the lightest available option.
Q: How does the Grade 6.2 willow compare to higher-grade bats?
A: Grade 6.2 willow is a more accessible grade compared with premium “Player” series bats. While the grain structure and consistency may differ, it still offers genuine English willow performance at a lower cost, making it ideal for club cricketers.
Q: How should I care for this bat?
A: Apply a light coat of raw linseed oil before first use, give it a final gentle knock-in around the edges and toe, and always store it in a cool, dry environment. Avoid extreme heat or moisture, and use protective toe tape if playing on hard or abrasive pitches.
