Start with the bat: willow, grade & profile
Willow types:
- Kashmir Willow: tougher, heavier; excellent for beginners, tennis-ball and entry leather-ball play (budget friendly).
- English Willow: lighter, more responsive; preferred for leather-ball matches. Grades 1–5 reflect grain quality and aesthetics (not just performance).
Weight & pickup:
- Juniors often thrive at 2 lb 6–8 oz; adults commonly 2 lb 8–10 oz.
- Pickup matters more than static weight—choose a bat that feels balanced through the swing.
Handle & profile:
- Semi-oval handle improves grip alignment.
- Mid-to-low sweet spot for Indian wickets; higher spots for bouncier tracks.
Knocking-in & oiling:
- Needed for most English willow. Expect 2–6 hours of knocking before match use.
Protective gear (don’t skimp!)
Helmet:
- Must comply with modern safety standards and feature a fixed or securely adjustable grille.
- Fit: crown sits snug; two-finger gap between grille & chin.
Pads & gloves:
- Size chart: Junior–Small/Standard/Youth–Adult. Try with your playing trousers to ensure straps align.
- Gloves: split/finger type for flexibility; leather palms for grip.
Abdo guard & thigh guards:
- Choose a combo thigh (front + inner) for speed and comfort.
- Female players: opt for anatomically designed guards.
Shoes:
- Batting: lightweight with toe protection.
- Bowling: reinforced heel & midfoot; spiked outsoles where allowed.
Clothing & maintenance
- Moisture-wicking jerseys, trousers with inner thigh reinforcement.
- Kit bag with bat cave, ventilated shoe pocket, and guard organizers.
- After-care: wipe dirt, air-dry pads/gloves, re-grip bat handle when tack fades.
Budget pathways
- Starter Leather-Ball Kit (~₹6k–₹9k): Kashmir willow, entry helmet/pads/gloves, abdo guard, spikes or rubber studs, basic bag.
- League Kit (~₹15k–₹25k): English willow Grade 4/3, certified helmet, lightweight pads/gloves, combo thigh, pro bag.
- State/Club Pro (₹30k+): English willow Grade 2/1, custom knocking, premium protective set, multiple bats for formats.
Quick sizing reference (typical)
- Bat sizes (junior): 4 (height 4’9”), 5 (4’11”), 6 (5’2”), Harrow (5’6”).
- Adult: SH (short handle) suits most; LH for taller players.
- Pads: measure from center knee to top of foot—match brand chart.
- Helmet: measure head circumference (cm) above eyebrows.
(Always check the brand’s chart on the product page.)
FAQs
Q: Kashmir vs English willow—what’s right for me?
Leather-ball beginners or budget conscious: Kashmir. Competitive leather-ball: English (better response), but maintain it well.
Q: Is a second bat necessary?
Tournament play benefits from two bats (different profiles/weights) to handle varying wickets and fatigue.
Q: Can I use spikes on turf only?
Yes. For mats/concrete, choose rubber studs or turf shoes.
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