Caring for your cricket bat is a vital aspect of excelling in the role of a batsman. The transformation of a bat through proper seasoning can remarkably shift your gameplay from average to exceptional. To ensure your bat not only endures but also enhances your performance, Marchant’s recommends the following comprehensive care routine:

Knocking In & and oiling (Also known as Seasoning)

Each English Willow and Kashmir Willow bat in our collection requires essential pre-use preparation. It is imperative to either apply a generous coating of oil or affix a sheet of Extratec to the bat's face. This crucial step ensures that the bat is fortified against potential damage. Neglecting this preparatory process could leave the bat susceptible to undesirable splitting and cracking, compromising its performance and longevity.

Oiling

Ensuring that your bat is regularly oiled is paramount in maintaining the optimal moisture balance within the wood. This meticulous maintenance not only preserves the bat's integrity but also significantly diminishes the likelihood of any splitting or cracking occurring. It's important to remember, however, that it's entirely normal for a bat to exhibit minor cracks and splits following mild to moderate usage. Such minor imperfections are a natural testament to the bat's journey and use in the sport.

(source: wristspinbowling.com)

Directions:

1. Use a cloth to apply 2-3 teaspoons of raw linseed oil to the face, edges and back of the bat and spread evenly. Avoid putting oil on labels.

2. Carefully wipe up any excess oils seen running down the bat when held upright.

3. Lay the bat down horizontally facing up for 24 hours after applying one coat of oil to allow proper drying.

4. For best results, repeat above process 3-4 times before first use.

5. Coating with oil is required every week thereafter.

Knocking In

Knocking in is the process by which the grains and fiber materials of the bat are compressed. This strengthens the bat to prepare it for use. This process is important to maintain the durability of the bat.

(source: sw.com.au)

Directions:

1. Use a ball or a wooden cricket bat mallet to knock the bat for 2-4 hours continuously.

2. Start the knocking process by hitting the mallet against the blade (face of the bat), firmly but not too hard.

3. Increase force after an hour.

4. Ensure all areas of the blade, not covered by stickers, are knocked in equally.

5. When knocking the edges, roll the mallet or a rounded object up and down the edge of the bat.

When the knocking and oiling process has been completed, and if Extratec has not been applied, the blade should be tested to see if it requires more oil. To do this, run your thumbnail up the blade of the bat from the toe to just below where the front sticker is. If there is a tiny speck of oil where your thumbnail is, there is enough oil. However, if there is no oil the blade will need to be oiled again. YOUR BAT SHOULD BE TESTED IN THIS MANNER EVERY 3 TO 4 WEEKS TO ENSURE PROPER OILING.