Cricket gear for batting

The Cricket bat: The most important part of the kit for a batsman is the bat. Every batsman must choose a bat that is comfortable for him. Bats are made from English willow and Kashmir willow. Ideally a bat should weigh around 2lb.9oz. (1.150 kg.) with the balance towards the centre of the bat. However some prefer the weight towards the bottom to facilitate a faster downswing. The number of rubber grips on the handle will also vary according to the preference of the individual and the size of his palm. Ultimately while selecting the bat, a batsman must take his stance with the bat, pick it up normally and see if it feels comfortable and confident with it in his hands. The bat must always feel like the extension of the arm. [ Description of the cricket bat - Video ]

Protective gear: The protective gear to be worn by the batsman is equally important. The batting pads, batting gloves and abdomen guard are absolutely essential and have to be worn by all batsmen to prevent injury. The thigh pads, helmet, chest guard and forearm guard can also be worn depending on the skill and confidence of individual batsman. What is to be remembered is that each batsman must protect himself according to his batting capabilities and with relevance to the strength of the opposition and condition of the pitch. [ Video description of Batting pads | Batting gloves | Thigh pads | Forearm guards | Abdomen guards | Helmets ]

Shoes: Care must be taken to wear light footwear with protection at the toe and with the right sole for the surface you are playing. On matting and other artificial surfaces, shoes with rubber spiked soles will be the most comfortable. On turf wickets and where the wicket is wet and slippery, shoes with rubber soles and metal spikes in front (Half Spike shoes) are recommended for a secure grip while running, turning and playing shots. [ Description of the shoes - Video ]