Select the correct equipment

Another cricket season has just begun. In terms of domestic cricket, the under 23 club tournament has been conducted. The main three day and one day club tournaments are round the corner. School cricket at first and second eleven has also just got under way. Down the bottom (age wise) the under 13 schools tournament will also commence shortly. It is about that time when institutions and individual players go hunting for new equipment.

The bat could be considered as the first piece of equipment to be considered. It is the most expensive of all the requirements. For top order batsman it is important to regularly or almost always use the same bat, until it is discarded for another. The weight, balance and the number of grains on the blade are the necessary considerations.

Much technology goes into bat manufacturing and the products available are far better than twenty years ago. When a bat is picked first using both hand and then using one hand (the top hand) there is an immediate feel, which determines whether the bat is balanced. As a result of the generally good balance heavier bats are being used. However, each individual must be able to swing the piece of willow freely, without any strain on the arms, particularly the front hand. It is always advisable to use the lightest available bat when still learning the basics. In fact that would be until about age fourteen.

Have a careful look at the blade. The grain that runs down the wood should be between seven and ten. Bats with more grains do not tend to travel on contact and a few grains mean it could crack and get damaged easily. Also, ensure there are no knots particularly in the middle where you strike the ball regularly. Check the grip. Should it be too thick and tough to get the palms and fingers around, then give it away. On the opposite side, should the thickness be inadequate another rubber grip or two could be fitted. Finally, look after the bat carefully, it is precious. Should it be a bat that needs to be oiled and seasoned, then do that before use and continue to do so every three to four weeks. There is also the possibility of edges cracking. Get those areas bound no sooner the crack begins to widen. The main item of protective gear are batting gloves and batting pads. When batting, gloves and pads gets most of the beating. Again, there are many makes available and the more costly gear will have added protection.

Whilst protection is the key factor, batting gloves must be selected to ensure a firm grip on the bat handle as required. In particular, the top hand should be firmly wrapped around the handle.

Similarly, pads must offer maximum protection. Remember, you’ve got to have them on for long periods in the middle, so they must not be bulky and cumbersome. Always dry your pads and gloves, in the sun, after use. That will give them a longer life span. The rest of the protective gear includes the helmet, thigh guard, chest guard, inner thigh pad and abdominal guard. These pieces of equipment are the individual choice. It is good to get used to wearing a helmet when batting from a young age. Helmets are available in small sizes and they should be made use of. The inner thigh pad and chest guard will only be necessary when facing genuine quick and swing bowling. These are some items that will only be required as a player graduates to higher levels of the game.

On the field the wicket keeper will have his requirements. Again the gloves and pads will be the individuals’ choice. Close to the wicket fielders also have a range of protective equipment. Helmet, shin pads and abdominal guard form their collection of protective gear. Ensure that you use these pieces of equipment and avoid any type of accident.

Wear clothing that is loose on you. Tight fitting clothing restricts movement. Have an extra set of clothes. A different batting trouser is definitely necessary. This is mainly to fit in the protective gear and be comfortable to bat for long periods.There are other requirements such as hat, cap, underwear, socks and lesser used accessories. In short there is a whole lot of equipment. More than what is required for any other sport. Select your equipment carefully and make the correct selections.