Choosing the right junior cricket bat for your child is crucial for their development and enjoyment of the game. A bat that's too heavy or too long can hinder their technique and performance, while the right bat can enhance their skills. Please read our guide below for how to pick the ideal kids cricket bat.
Bat Size
Cricket bats come in various sizes, tailored to the height of the player. Here's a general size guide to help you start:
- Size 0: For children up to 4ft tall (usually aged 4-5 years)
- Size 1: For children 4ft - 4ft 3in tall (age 5-6)
- Size 2: For children 4ft 3in - 4ft 6in tall (age 6-7)
- Size 3: For children 4ft 6in - 4ft 9in tall (age 7-8)
- Size 4: For children 4ft 9in - 4ft 11in tall (age 8-9)
- Size 5: For children 4ft 11in - 5ft 2in tall (age 9-10)
- Size 6: For children 5ft 2in - 5ft 5in tall (age 10-11)
- Harrow: For children 5ft 5in - 5ft 8in tall (age 11-13)
- Full size (Short Handle): For players 5ft 8in and taller (age 14+)
Weight Matters
The weight of the cricket bat is just as important as its size. Young players should be able to comfortably hold and swing the bat without strain. Lightweight bats are preferable for younger children to help them develop good batting technique. A bat that's too heavy can lead to bad habits, such as playing shots with only the arms rather than the whole body.
For taller, young cricketers in need of a lighter bat consider options such as the Gray Nicolls GEM range, New Balance Burn range and the Kookaburra Rapid range.
Visit our cricket bats page for all our full size short handle bats.
Choose the Right Material
Junior cricket bats are typically made from willow. English willow is considered superior due to its lightweight and shock absorption qualities, but it can be more expensive. Kashmir willow is an alternative that's more affordable and durable, making it a good choice for the youngest cricketers. Popular entry-level Kashmir willow bat options include the GM Diamond 101 Junior Bat or the new Gray Nicolls Tempesta Warrior bat.
Pick the Right Style
Consider your child's playing style when selecting a bat. Bats come in different shapes, with variations in the size and position of the sweet spot (the area of the bat that delivers the maximum power). Front-foot players might prefer a bat with a low middle, while back-foot players might benefit from a bat with a higher middle.
Test For Comfort
You can always visit one of our cricket stores in Leeds and Sheffield so your child can pick up and feel different bats before making a decision. In our Sheffield megastore, we have a batting net for them to fully test out the best bat for them. They should be able to comfortably lift and swing the bat. Check that the bat is not too heavy for them to hold in their normal batting stance for at least 30 seconds without discomfort.
Consider Future Growth
Children grow quickly, so consider opting for a bat that they will grow into over the season. However, avoid choosing a bat that's too large or heavy, as this could negatively impact their development.
You can view our selection of junior cricket bats here - we offer a wide variety of sizes, brands, weights and grades to suit all budgets. If you still require any more help in finding the right bat, please don't hesitate to get in touch and our team of experts can guide you.
