How to Knock In Your Cricket Bat Properly (Step-by-Step Guide)
A new cricket bat is like a finely tuned instrument—it needs to be prepared before it performs at its best. If you're using an English or Kashmir Willow bat, knocking it in properly is essential to maximize performance and prevent damage. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned player, this step-by-step guide from Titan Willow Cricket Store will show you exactly how to knock in your bat the right way.
🛠️ What Is Knocking In and Why Is It Important?
Knocking in is the process of compressing the fibers of the bat’s blade to make it match-ready. This strengthens the bat, prevents cracks, and ensures a better rebound when hitting the ball. Even if your bat is labeled “pre-knocked” or “ready to play,” additional knocking in is still highly recommended to fully condition it.
🔍 What You’ll Need
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A wooden bat mallet (or an old leather cricket ball)
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Raw linseed oil (if not pre-oiled)
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A soft cloth or applicator
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Optional: Anti-scuff sheet or edge tape
🧴 Step 1: Oil the Bat
If your bat hasn’t been oiled:
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Apply a thin layer of raw linseed oil to the face, edges, toes, and back (except the sticker area).
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Use a soft cloth to spread evenly.
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Let it dry for 12–24 hours in a cool, dry place (not in the sun).
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Repeat once if needed, but don’t over-oil—this can soften the willow too much.
⚠️ Never oil the splice, handle, or stickers.
🔨 Step 2: Start Knocking with a Mallet
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Begin gently—tap the face of the bat with a wooden mallet using light force.
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Work across the entire face, especially the sweet spot and edges (avoid hitting the splice or handle).
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Knock in the bat for 10–15 minutes per session, building up pressure slowly.
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Focus on rounding off the edges with glancing blows, not direct hits.
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Gradually increase the force after the first 2–3 sessions.
🕒 Total knocking-in time: 6 to 8 hours over several days.
⚾ Step 3: Test with an Old Cricket Ball
After 4–5 hours of mallet work:
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Gently hit an old, softened cricket ball on the bat face.
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If you see seam marks or dents, more knocking is needed.
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Continue the process until the bat can handle firm ball impacts with minimal marking.
🧩 Step 4: Optional – Apply Protection
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Add a scuff sheet or edge tape to reduce surface wear.
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Apply a toe guard if playing on damp pitches.
These don’t replace knocking in but help preserve the bat during play.
✅ Step 5: Gradual Net Practice
Once knocking is complete:
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Start using the bat in gentle net sessions against older balls.
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Gradually move to match balls and faster bowlers.
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Avoid using it against new balls or in matches until you're confident it’s fully prepared.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using excessive oil or over-oiling
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Skipping the edges or toes
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Hitting the bat hard too early
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Using the bat in a match straight from the wrapper
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Not checking for seam marks before full use
🎯 Final Thoughts
Properly knocking in your bat is an investment in performance and longevity. It prevents cracks, enhances feel, and gives you confidence at the crease. At Titan Willow Cricket Store, we offer professional knocking-in services if you prefer to have it done by experts.
Need help preparing your new bat? Reach out to our team, or add our “Professional Knocking Service” at checkout when buying your next Titan bat.