How to Knocking_In a cricket bat?

Knocking_In a Cricket bat is an essential part of its preparation. Even if you have purchased a “pre knocked in” bat, further knocking is always required. Below is a step by step guide to knocking in.

Process of Knocking_In a Cricket Bat

1. Apply Raw linseed oil to the face, edges and back of the bat evenly, 2 to 3 teaspoons of oil is the correct amount. Whilst oiling take care not to oil the splice (where the handle fits into the blade), handle or labelled areas, also take great care not to over oil the bat as this will deaden the fibres of the timber and affect performance.
2. Leave the bat horizontal and face up to dry for 24 hours.
3. If you are planning to use the bat in its natural state, without an anti scuff sheet, then repeat steps 1 and 2 twice more. If you are planning to have a protective anti scuff sheet fitted then one initial coat of oil is sufficient.
4. Wipe off any excess oil and knock in your bat with a specialist bat mallet for approximately 4 hours. The edges and toe of the blade require particular attention using glancing blows off the face to harden and round these areas. Particular care and attention should be made not to hit the edges, toe or back of the bat directly as this will cause damage. The knocking in should be performed with gradual increasing force, but never too hard to cause damage. Light opening of the grain structure and small surface abrasions can occur and will not affect the bats performance or durability.
5. Fibre tape is applied to the edges of the bat and an Anti scuff sheet is fitted over the top if required. We strongly recommend this procedure.
6. Test the blade using a good quality old ball during a light net session or having “throw downs”. If seam marks and indentations occur further knocking in is required.
7. Go out and enjoy your new bat!

This is simple process through which you can prepare you bat for batting.