So, you’re looking to take up a new sport and that sport just so happens to be cricket. And no, it’s not just a fancier version of baseball, it has its own charm and perks. Cricket is not as physically demanding and exhausting as other sports and it’s still equally fun and enjoyable. What more could you ask for from a hobby? If you aren’t that keen on physical activity but would still like to try out a sport, it’s the perfect option for you (and myself!).
As is the case with any other sport, having the proper set of cricket equipment can undoubtedly improve your skills and make playing the game an easier and more enjoyable experience. A cricket bat is perhaps the most essential piece of equipment you’ll need. If you’re just starting off, you might need a little help to navigate your way through the vast range of models and designs available.
What Factors Should Influence Your Choice?
The Size of the Bat
The best bat size for you will depend on your body shape and type. And remember, bigger isn’t always better. Adult cricket bats are somewhat larger than children’s cricket bats – this is understandable since children are smaller in size and larger bats will be more difficult to handle. Women generally use lighter cricket balls which is why most women cricket bat models are a tad smaller to match the size of the ball and to maximise speed and precision.
The Shape of the Bat
The sweet spot of a cricket bat is the centrepiece of the bat which you’ll most often use to hit the ball. Each bat has different swell depths and edge size which means that the sweet spot can range from low to mid-range to high with different bounce rates. It’s important to consider your batting strengths and the wicket you play on. Some say that different bats are designed for either front or back foot play but this doesn’t matter as much since you likely won’t be able to tell the difference. And lastly, some bats are simply appealing to the eye and pleasing to look at so make sure you get one that suits your taste. There’s a wide range of different designs when searching for a men and women cricket bat so you have lots of options to choose from.
Weight and Pickup
Essentially, there’s no right or wrong choice here. The goal is to pick a bat that feels right for you once you pick it up. The weight itself doesn’t actually influence the quality of the bat. What actually matters is how that weight is balanced and distributed throughout the body of the bat. If the weight is evenly distributed, the bat will feel much lighter than it actually is, making it instantly easier to handle and play with. There’s no need to rush your decision, try out different bats and see how they feel in your hand.
Bat Grade and Appearance
The price of the bat depends greatly on the type of wood used in the production process. Willow grades range from 1 to 5 with grade 1 being the most expensive option and arguably the best in terms of quality, reliability and durability. In addition, they have a smooth finish and refined appearance which makes them easy on the eyes. Grade 5 willow may have a certain degree of wood discolouration present but that shouldn’t significantly affect playability. Consider the financial budget you have at your disposal and how often you actually intend to play cricket before making a decision on which one to get. It’s not worth investing in anything too expensive if you won’t really use it that much in the future.
Cricket Batting Tips
When positioning yourself on the pitch, stand sideways with your feet apart at shoulder-width. Distribute your weight equally across both of your legs to maximise balance and ease of movement. Make sure you have a secure grip on the bat, holding it tightly and firmly will increase your chances of hitting the ball properly. A general rule of thumb is to keep your dominant hand above your non-dominant hand when holding the bat. Once you’re all set, tap the bat twice on the ground to let the bowler know you’re ready to go.
No matter what happens, it’s important to stay calm and focused, keeping your eyes trained on the ball as it comes towards you. You can even practice your stance in front of a mirror to see what works best for you. After all, cricket is a game of trial and error and with a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun and let loose since that’s what playing sports is all about.
What Are the Benefits of Playing Cricket?
Cricket offers a range of benefits which is why it’s one of the most popular sports in the world. First off, it’s played in teams which means increased social interaction and better teamwork skills such as cooperation and communication. Regardless of whether you’re playing it competitively or not, it’s a great way to mingle with others, create meaningful bonds and work together to achieve a common goal. Secondly, cricket has quite a few health benefits.
It tones your muscles and increases flexibility, endurance and stamina. It also improves your motor skills and hand-eye coordination which can positively affect performance. Over time, you’ll develop a greater ability to make quick choices and sound decisions under pressure, using reasonable judgement. And last but not least, playing cricket is a great cardio workout since it involves a lot of sprinting, throwing and swinging. In this way, you reduce the risk of potential cardiovascular problems and complications in the future. All the more reason to take up cricket right? Now that you have all the info you need, what are you waiting for?
