BEFORE KNOCKING
Oil the bat before knocking to maintain moisture levels which reduces chances of cracking and splitting. Use raw linseed oil or specialist cricket bat oil.
First Application
Apply light coat to the face, edges, toe and back of the willow, avoiding maker stickers and splice region.
Allow bat to dry for 24 hours placing it horizontally face-up. Dab and remove excess oil.
Second Application
If available, use a very fine sand paper, give a light sand to the face of the bat and then apply light coat of oil to the face of bat only.
Allow bat to dry for 24 hours placing it horizontally face-up. Dab and remove excess oil.
Third Application
Apply light coat of oil to the face of the bat only.
Allow bat to dry for 24 hours placing it horizontally face-up. Dab and remove excess oil.
AVOID OVER OILING YOUR BAT
KNOCKING
Knocking is essential improve the performance and preserve the bat. It compresses and binds the wood fibres.
Use a wooden mallet or used ball with softened seam.
Round the Edges
Brand new bats have sharp edge which can be easily chipped off so gently knock the edges to round them off. Avoid directly hitting the edge head on. Knock in at an angle of approximately 35 to 45 degrees. Do not use force, start in the middle and go up and down the edge. Spend about 15-20 mins on each edge
Prepare the Toe
To maintain the balance and weight of the bat the toe region (3 to 4 inches) is not as thick as the sweet spot. Similar to edges gently knock the toe and avoid directly hitting the toe head on. Knock in at an angle of approximately 35 to 45 degrees. Spend about 15-20 mins on the toe.
Knock the Play Area
Patiently knock the face of the bat where we expect to play for about 4 to 6 hours. Start with gentle force and gradually increase the force. Reduce the force as you go towards the edges and the toe.
AFTER KNOCKING
Use the oiled and knocked bat for hitting catch practice and observe the face of the bat. If you notice seam marks then return to the knocking stage and knock it in for about 60 minutes or till the seam marks are gone.
INTRODUCTION TO NETS
Use the bat in couple of net sessions before the match.