Before your bat ever faces a hard cricket ball, it needs to be knocked in. This process compresses the willow fibres, reducing the risk of cracks and improving durability.
How to knock in your bat properly:
Use a bat mallet or an old cricket ball wrapped in cloth
Start gently, focusing on the face and edges
Gradually increase force over several sessions
Avoid hitting the toe directly with full force
Spend extra time on the edges and lower half of the bat
Rushing this step is one of the most common mistakes players make – and one of the easiest ways to damage a new
bat.
Alternatively, SCC offer bat knock-ins for customers who can’t find the time to fully prepare their bat.
Cricket bats are made from natural willow, which needs moisture to stay strong and flexible. Light oiling prevents the wood from drying out and cracking.
Best practices for oiling:
Use raw linseed oil or a cricket-specific bat oil
Apply a very thin coat with a cloth or sponge
Oil only the face, edges, and toe – never the splice or handle
Let the bat dry horizontally with the bat face showing for 24 hours
Typically, 1–2 coats for a new bat is enough
Over-oiling can soften the bat and reduce performance, so less is more.
Proper storage is an often-overlooked part of bat care.
Storage tips:
Store your bat horizontally or hanging
Keep it in a padded bat cover
Avoid resting it on the toe for long periods
Ensure it’s stored in a cool, dry place
Don’t leave it in the car or anywhere
that may produce lots of heat or direct sunlight
Good storage habits help maintain balance, shape, and performance.
The toe of the bat takes a beating, especially on low or damp pitches. Adding protection here can significantly extend your bat’s life.
Recommended protection:
Toe guard to prevent moisture damage and take the blow of impact to the ground or ball
Edge tape or anti-scuff sheets for extra durability
Regularly check for peeling or damage and replace when needed
These small additions can prevent big problems later.
Willow is sensitive to environmental conditions. Too much moisture or extreme heat can warp or crack the bat.
What to avoid:
Playing with a wet bat or on very damp pitches
Leaving your bat in a hot car
Storing it in garages, sheds, or near heaters
If your bat does get wet, gently dry it with a towel and let it air-dry naturally – never use direct heat.
Get into the habit of checking your bat regularly.
Look out for:
Surface cracks (usually cosmetic)
Edge damage
Loose grips or handle issues
Delamination
Minor issues can often be fixed early with sanding, oiling, or tape – before they turn into serious damage. Bats should be serviced every 6 months to keep performance high,
which can be done by the SCC repair team.
A well-cared-for cricket bat rewards you with better performance, longer life, and more confidence at the crease. From knocking in and oiling to protection and storage, consistent care makes all the difference.
Treat your bat with respect, and it’ll return the favour – innings after innings.
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