Kashmir Willow Bat Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts

Kashmir Willow is widely used by professional cricketers for training and even at competitive levels as it provides them with power-hitting ability. While English willow is more prominent at the international and national levels, Kashmir willow is also growing in preference due to changing dynamics of modern cricket, which demands aggressive play. These bats are less susceptible to damage because of their higher density and rigid wood. But these require proper maintenance to extend the life of the bat. For Kashmir willow bat maintenance, there are certain do’s and don’ts one must know and follow.

Do’s for Maintaining Kashmir Willow

To maintain the Kashmir Willow Cricket Bat, it needs to be oiled when needed. Knocking of bats, an essential activity before a bat is used, is done to harden its wood and make it ready for the leather ball. Here are the do’s to maintain Kashmir Willow:

• Timely Oil: Though Kashmir willow has some moisture content in it, it still needs to be oiled. Linseed oil is most suitable for oiling, and it is applied mandatorily before knocking and periodically when the surface feels dry. For professional cricketers, it should be oiled before season begins, once during the season and at the end of the season. Apply oil and leave it for a few hours before knocking in so that the oil is completely absorbed.
• Knocking In: The wood of the bat is soft, and the edges are sharp when bought. Therefore, knock in using specialized mallet and hammer the edges to make them round and then the face of the bat. Remember, hammering should be done at 45 degrees to apply optimal force. The whole activity takes around 2 hours. Use an old, soft leather ball when using the bat first time.
• Apply Anti-Scuff Sheet: An anti-scuff sheet is applied to absorb the impact of the leather ball and prevent cracks and dents. It is recommended to apply after knocking the bat. Apply the tape on the face and the edges, and ensure no bubbles are formed.
• Carefully Clean: Use a dry piece of cloth to thoroughly clean the dirt, debris and dust around the surfaces.
• Store in Protective Cover: When not being used, keep the bat in its cover to protect it from the external environment.
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect for cracks, splits and promptly repair it to prevent complete damage.

Dont’s for Maintaining Kashmir Willow

• Over-Oiling: Avoid too much oiling as it can over-moisturise the bat, leading to infestations, weakening of strength and internal damage.
• Forceful Knocking: Knock at 45 45-degree angle and not directly at 90 degrees so that hard force is not exerted on the surface.
• Wet Clothes: Never use a wet piece of cloth for cleaning, as moisture is the enemy of the wood.
• Laying it Uncovered: When not in use, do not keep it uncovered. People often leave it in the car, thinking it is safe from rain and moisture, but it gets exposed to high temperatures that weaken the bat.
• Hard Ball: After the knocking has been done and the bat goes for practicing, do not use a hard leather ball at the beginning. Use a soft and old leather ball and slowly progress towards a hard ball.

To Summarize

Kashmir Willow Bat is preferred for its power stroke generation. It has high density and hardwood, both of which make it strong and sustainable. Maintaining these bats requires applying oil, cleaning the bat with a dry cloth, and regular inspections. It must be knocked in otherwise, or it cracks and splits when directly used against leather balls.

If you want to buy Kashmir Willow, GLS Sports provides these bats in a wide range of prices, while quality remains great in all the variants.