New Balance DC 880 Cricket Bat 2023
Overview
The New Balance DC 880 Cricket Bat 2023 is built for confident stroke-makers who dominate the front foot. With a mid-to-low sweet spot, pronounced spine, and thick edges, it's tailored for aggressive batting, especially on lower-bounce wickets and front-foot-heavy conditions.
Design and Materials
Made from high quality English Willow, the DC 880 strikes a fine balance between performance and value. Its large profile and generous sweet spot offer excellent power, while the semi-oval cane handle ensures stability and comfort at the crease. The bat's modern shaping gives it a strong presence with great pickup and control.
Key Features
- Mid-to-Low Sweet Spot: Perfect for driving and attacking from the front foot.
- Pronounced Spine and Thick Edges: Maximises power and forgiveness on off-centre shots.
- Semi-Oval Cane Handle: Provides comfort, reduces vibration, and enhances control.
- Clean, Sleek Aesthetics: Includes New Balance's modern decals and high-quality finishing.
- Pre-Prepared: Lightly oiled and pre-knocked, though further preparation is advised.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Willow Quality |
High Quality English Willow |
| Sweet Spot Position |
Mid-to-Low |
| Handle |
Semi-Oval, Premium Cane |
| Weight Range |
2lb 9oz - 2lb 10oz |
| Pre-Preparation |
Further Knocking In Recommended |
VKS Review
The DC 880 offers a very satisfying blend of power, feel, and value. The shaping is modern and aggressive, with a low driving zone that suits players who favour front-foot dominance. The pickup is well-balanced for its size, and the slightly oval handle helps maintain control on powerful shots. A fantastic option for players looking for a bat with professional feel and punch--without stepping into the top-tier price bracket.
Q&A Section
Q: Is this bat suitable for intermediate players?
A: Absolutely. The DC 880 is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who want a powerful yet responsive bat.
Q: Does it need knocking in?
A: Yes, while it comes pre-prepared, we recommend additional knocking-in before match use for optimal performance and durability.
Q: How does it compare to higher-end DC models?
A: The DC 880 offers similar shaping and balance but uses a slightly lower grade of willow--still high quality, just with more cosmetic blemishes.
Q: What type of player is this bat aimed at?
A: It's geared towards aggressive batsmen who like to dominate with front-foot play, particularly suited to shorter formats or slower wickets.
Q: Is the bat ready to use out of the wrapper?
A: Not quite. It's pre-prepared but will require further knocking-in.
