How to knock in your new Cricket Bat
Why Do You Need to Knock In a Cricket Bat?
Knocking-in is essential to extend the life of your cricket bat. Without it, your bat is highly susceptible to damage, particularly at the toe and edges. Knocking-in compresses the fibres of the blade, reducing the risk of dents, seam marks, and cracks when facing hard balls.
How Long Should You Knock In Your Bat?
There’s no fixed rule—it depends on how hard the bat has been pressed during production. If a mallet leaves deep indentations in the blade, the bat is under-pressed and needs more knocking-in. If there are minimal marks, it's likely been firmly pressed and will need less time.
As a general guide, 1–2 hours of knocking-in is a safe amount before net practice.
Can You Overdo Knocking-In?
No. Provided you build up the force gradually, you can knock in as much as you like. The more preparation, the better your bat will perform and last.
Can You Knock In Without Oiling?
Yes, although we recommend applying an anti-scuff sheet beforehand. For full preparation advice, see our Bat Preparation Guide.
Focus Areas: The Toe & Edges
The Toe
The toe is the most impact-prone part of the bat. When new, it has sharper, more squared-off edges. Through knocking-in, we aim to simulate natural wear—rounding it off with repeated, moderate mallet strikes. This reduces the risk of early cracks and surface damage.
The Edges
We strongly advise not to strike the actual edge or angled part of the bat with a mallet. Unlike the face, this area is not pressed and is therefore much softer. Hitting it directly increases the risk of hairline cracks and damage.
Instead, strike the blade near the edge, replicating the angle and force of ball contact. This is the safest and most effective way to prepare the edges.
How to Judge Readiness
Feel the blade with your hand or inspect it under a light. Large dents? Use less force and build up gradually. No dents? Increase pressure. The goal is to strengthen the surface without damaging it.
As Sam’s old mentor used to say: “You can never give them too much.”
Playing In Your Bat
Never use a brand-new bat in a match. Start in the nets with older balls and monitor the response. If deep seam marks appear, resume knocking-in. Once confident, introduce newer balls in practice sessions. This playing-in phase ensures your bat is fully match-ready.
Using Your New Bat
If you bat lower in the order, you might be able to introduce your bat earlier. Top-order batters should take extra care, as new bats are most vulnerable to new balls.
New bats and new balls have never been friends—let them meet gradually.
Important Warning
Do not use your new bat against a bowling machine. Bowling machine balls are harder, heavier, and faster than standard cricket balls. They can cause severe and often irreparable damage to a new blade.
Final Advice
Always knock in your bat in a way that replicates real ball contact. This ensures you’re preparing it for match conditions, not just ticking a box. Take your time—and give your bat the best possible start.