Cricket bats are crafted using English Willow Cricket Bat, a type of wood with specific qualities like durability, lightness, and ease of shaping through sanding and carving. The source of English Willow Cricket Bat used for creating cricket bats is primarily from England and Kashmir. While England is considered the traditional hub of bat production, its Willow is also highly esteemed and highly rated. As a result, elite players in both International and First-class cricket leagues exclusively use English Willow Bats due to their ability to deliver the most substantial impact and power to the ball.
The crucial feature of English Willow bats is their ability to provide excellent pick-up and balance. The pick-up of a bat refers to how it feels in your hands when you lift it off the ground. Professional batters prefer bats that feel lighter in their hands while still being sufficiently heavy to deliver a powerful hit to the ball.
There are two varieties of Willow utilized to make high-quality cricket bats.
- English Willow
- Kashmir willow
The Willow used in cricket bat production is English or white, originating from England. Despite its name, it is distinct from Kashmir willow, which has a brownish hue and is easily distinguishable from English Willow due to its color and grain density. English Willow has a much whiter appearance and a higher density of grains than Kashmir willow.
Cleaning an English Willow Cricket Bat Is Essential to Maintaining Its Performance and Durability
Here are the tips you can follow in cleaning your English Willow Cricket Bat:
- Start by wiping the bat with a dry cloth to eliminate loose dirt or debris.
- Mix a small amount of mild cleanser or soap with warm water in containers.
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge in the soapy water and wring out any abundant water.
- Gently wipe the bat with a damp cloth or sponge, ensuring it gets into grooves or crevices.
- Use a separate damp cloth to rinse off any soap residue.
- Wipe the bat with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moistureApply a thin coat of linseed oil to the face and edges of the bat with a soft cloth. This helps to protect the bat from moisture and helps to maintain its natural oils.
- Store the bat in a dry place, away from dampness or extreme heat.
It’s essential to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the bat’s surface. Also, don’t soak the bat in water, which can cause the wood to dissolve moisture and potentially warp or crack. Following these simple tips, you can maintain your English Willow Cricket Bat in top condition for many seasons.
When to Oil Your Cricket Bat
Oil is essential to maintaining an English Willow Cricket Bat, as it helps keep the wood supple and protect it from drying out and becoming brittle. Here are some guidelines for when to oil your cricket bat:
- Before using your bat for the first time, apply a light coat of oil to your new cricket bat before using it for the first time. This will help protect the bat’s surface and keep it in top condition.
- Wipe your cricket bat with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt or moisture after each use. Then, apply a light coat of oil to the face and edges of the bat. This will help maintain the wood’s natural oils and prevent it from drying out.
- If the bat starts to feel dry: If you notice that your cricket bat is starting to feel dry or stiff, applying a light coat of oil to the surface is a good idea. This will help to keep the wood supple and prevent it from cracking or splitting.
- At the start and end of the cricket season: It’s a good idea to give your cricket bat a more thorough oiling at the beginning and end. This will help to prepare it for use and protect it during the off-season.
Remember, it’s essential not to over-oil your cricket bat, which can cause the wood to become too soft and reduce its performance. A regular light coat of oil should be sufficient to keep your cricket bat in top condition.
In conclusion, taking care of your English Willow Cricket Bat is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. It is vital to keep your bat clean and dry after every use, avoid playing with a wet ball and use a protective cover during transportation. Following these guidelines, you can keep your English Willow Cricket Bat in good condition for many seasons and ensure it performs at its best on the field.
