The New Balance DC 600 junior cricket bat is built for young players moving up through the age groups. It comes in five sizes, from Size 4 up to Small Adult. Its low swell profile carries large edges and a big sweet spot. New Balance has also cut the junior price compared with its 2026 equivalent.
Junior bats get outgrown fast, so price matters to parents. New Balance has lowered the price for the same quality of wood as last year. That makes it easier to move up a size each season without paying more.
Large edges help young batters who do not always find the middle. Mistimed shots still carry, which builds confidence in the nets and in matches. The UK junior season runs from April to September. Buy early to leave time for knocking in.
New Balance lists the junior sizes in its J4 Fibre grade. J4 is the junior grade for this model, so it differs from the Grade 4 willow on senior sizes. The blade keeps the same low swell profile as the senior DC 600. You get large edges and a big sweet spot in a smaller frame.
The handle uses 6 piece Singapore cane in a semi oval shape. Cane flexes slightly when the ball hits, so less jarring reaches young hands. A silver grip covers the handle. A clear toe guard protects the toe from damp and wear.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | New Balance |
| Model | DC 600 Junior |
| Sizes | Small Adult (SA), Harrow (H), 6, 5, 4 |
| Grade | J4 Fibre |
| Handle | 6 piece Singapore cane |
| Handle shape | Semi oval (33/37) |
| Grip | Silver |
| Toe guard | Clear |
| Profile | Low swell, large edges and sweet spot |
| Pricing | Reduced vs the 2026 equivalent in the same quality |
The junior DC 600 is a sound choice for a growing cricketer. The low swell and big edges give a full feel on drives, even on slower club pitches. The cane handle takes some of the sting out of a ball hit near the toe. Because the price has dropped for the same wood, moving up a size costs less than last year.
The trade off is the profile. Players who mostly cut and pull off the back foot may prefer a mid or high swell. A bat that is too big or heavy will hold a young player back. Size matters more than grade. VKS has over 50 years of cricket experience, and The Telegraph named us London's Finest Cricket Store. Bring your child to our London store in Ealing and we can check the right size.
Which size DC 600 junior bat should I buy?
Choose by your child's height, not their age. Size 4 is the smallest here, then 5, 6, Harrow and Small Adult. The best check is in store, with the bat held in their batting stance.
What is the difference between Harrow and Small Adult?
Small Adult is the larger of the two and the biggest junior size. Harrow sits one step below it, above Size 6. Older juniors often use these sizes before moving to a full Short Handle.
Is the junior DC 600 the same as the senior bat?
It shares the same low swell profile, handle, grip and toe guard. The grade differs, with juniors in J4 Fibre and seniors in Grade 4. Sizing is also scaled down for younger players.
Does a junior bat need knocking in?
Yes, a new willow bat should be knocked in before match use. Knocking in hardens the face and edges so they resist cracks. Use a mallet first, then play gently in the nets.
Should my child have a low swell bat?
A low swell suits juniors who drive a lot off the front foot. It also helps on slower, lower bouncing pitches common in junior cricket. If they pull and cut more, a mid swell may suit them better.
Can the New Balance DC 600 junior cricket bat be a Christmas present?
Yes, it makes a good gift for a young cricketer. A winter purchase leaves time to knock it in before April. Our Ealing store team can help you pick the right size first.
Is the junior DC 600 cheaper than last year?
Yes, New Balance has cut the price against its 2026 junior equivalent. The cut applies to the same quality of wood. It is available online with free UK delivery on orders over £100.