Bat Preparation & Care Guidelines

Oiling Your Cricket Bat.

When you purchase a new cricket bat from Bat First, we recommend giving the bat a light oiling. You will need to repeat this process at the end of the season, please follow the instructions in the video below.

Knocking-In Your Cricket Bat

Knocking-In is an essential part of preparing your cricket bat for play. Please watch the video below and make sure you spend plenty of time doing this process.

Fitting A Scuff/Protective Sheet

Fitting a scuff sheet to your cricket bat will help protect the face and edges from wear and tear. Watch the video below to learn how to do it the right way.

5 Things to Avoid

Bat 'Tapping'
Most batsmen 'tap' their bat as the bowler approaches. If you are a 'bat tapper,' try to limit this, don't tap too hard, and AVOID if the wicket is wet. The toe of a cricket bat is a very vulnerable area, and tapping can cause severe damage. Tapping against the wicket when taking guard compresses fibres which then open out, leading to splits, greater absorption of moisture, de-lamination of the face, and irreparable damage.
Use Decent Quality Balls
There are a lot of cheap balls on the market which have hard centres and pronounced seams. If someone turns up to nets with a rock-hard “cherry" ask them not to use it. If you're a young player, ask the coach if the ball is ok to use with your bat. A good coach should know the difference and appreciate the problems an inferior ball can cause.
Avoid Dampness
If your bat does get wet, then allow it to dry naturally then inspect it for any signs of swelling or fibres opening up which will need attention.
Avoid Heat
Likewise, if you leave your bat exposed to extreme heat, it will lose moisture, dry out and become brittle. NEVER leave your bat in direct sunlight, in a hot car or propped up to the radiator or heating system at home.
Store Properly
Make sure you store your bat in a dry, coolish atmosphere. Always avoid excessive heat, damp or cold, and at the end of a season, give it a light oil.