Our friends at REAPER CRICKET have put together this short explanation on how and why you should prepare your new Cricket Bat before you use it in a Game or Nets:
Oiling
REAPER CRICKET recommend that when you receive your bat you apply 2 or 3 light coats of raw linseed oil to the face, back edges and toe (unless a toe guard is fitted). Clean the bat using VERY fine sand paper before each new application. After oiling lay bat flat for a few hours and allow to dry. Ideally over night where possible.
Anti-Scuff Sheet
When your bat is completely dry, we would suggest the application of a clear Anti-Scuff sheet and edge tape if needed but this is down to your personal preference as some see this as spoiling the aesthetics of the bat.
Knocking In
Knocking in will help ensure a long lasting future for your bat and increase its performance. It should be carefully knocked in with soft old leather cricket balls or a bat mallet. Knocking in should be aimed around the edges and the toe on the face of the bat. Take great care when knocking in as hitting too hard too soon may crack or damage the willow. The more time you invest in conditioning your bat the better, performance will be greatly improved and it will also help contribute to increasing the life of your bat. We would suggest 2 to 4 (some say closer to 6) hours knocking in as a minimum. Avoid bowling machine practice until the bat is fully knocked in.
Bat Cover
Keeping your bat in a protective case when not in use will help protect your bat from unwanted dents and bumps.
Willow
Willow is a natural soft wood, that when pressed provides the rebound qualities required to strike a ball. Some small cracks will appear on your bat due to general wear and tear, these will not affect the performance of your bat.
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You can purchase the FULL RANGE of REAPER CRICKET equipment at The Cricket Boutique - www.thecricketboutique.co.uk
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