An essential aspect of a cricket bat's durability and performance is its handle, which, when crafted correctly, can significantly enhance a player's game.
But apart from being the key element to holding the bat, why are handles so important?
Cricket bat binding is crucial as it reinforces the handle, ensuring stability and strength. This process involves wrapping the handle with a twine, typically after applying PVC glue, to secure the cane pieces to the bat around the taps, at the top of the splice. Proper binding enhances the bat's durability and aids in shock absorption, significantly impacting the player's performance and comfort.
In this post, we delve into the process of cricket bat binding, a simple yet crucial part of cricket bat manufacturing, from junior cricket bats to cricket bats for adults.
But first, let's have a deeper look at bat handles.
Understanding Cricket Bat Handles
The handle of a cricket bat is not just a stick attached to the flat blade; it is a complex structure designed to offer flexibility, grip, and balance.
All handles at Trogon Cricket are made from Singapore cane, renowned for its strength and elasticity and we offer a number of different options.
We offer three handle options:
4-piece, 9-piece, and 12-piece, each crafted to cater to different playing styles and preferences.
- Our 4-piece handles are used for a grades 3 & 4 and kids bats.
- Our 9 piece are used for grade 2 cricket bats
- Our 12 piece are used for grade 1 + player grade and for all custom made cricket bats.
The pieces in these handles are strategically combined with rubber inserts. These rubber inserts play a crucial role in dampening the vibrations generated when the bat strikes the ball, providing a more comfortable grip and reducing the risk of jarring in the hands.
The number of pieces in a handle also affects its flexibility and shock absorption, with higher piece counts generally offering more flex and better vibration absorption.
This customization in the handle construction ensures that every cricketer can find a bat that feels just right, enhancing their control and confidence at the crease.
Comprising of the above, these canes are joined to form the core of the cricket bat handle. The construction of these handles is a testament to the intricate craftsmanship that goes into making custom-made cricket bats.
The Role of Cricket Bat Binding
Once the handle is crafted and inserted into the cricket bat, the next step is the cricket bat binding process. This involves applying PVC glue to the handle, followed by tightly wrapping a binding material around it in a single layer.
This binding runs along the entire length of the handle, offering much-needed stability and strength.
The role of the binding is not just decorative; it plays a crucial part in maintaining the structural integrity of the bat, especially during the high-impact action of hitting a cricket ball.
As mentioned above the binding of the handle is a crucial element of cricket bat-making. The above image shows me using our custom-made binding lathe. First, the bat is securely fitted, then glue is added to the handle and then the binding is wrapped all the way down the handle.
The above image shows the raw cricket bat and the joint between the handle and the blade, known as the splice but also 'tabs' these are the part of the blade that run up the handle. When binding the handle, we make sure that the binding is super-tight around the tabs, we then apply CA glue to the area to provide additional strength.
We have different sizes of twine that we use on our handles, but the main binding is shown in the above image.
Maintenance and Rehandling
Over time, due to regular use and wear, the binding at the base of the handle might become loose. This is a common issue but one that needs attention. Some cricketers resort to using tape to secure the binding, which can be effective as a temporary fix.
However, for a more permanent solution, cricket bat rehandling involves adding some PVC glue and re-glueing the end of the binding. This simple fix can significantly extend the life of your cricket bat.
Customization and Variety
At Trogon Cricket, we understand that every cricketer has unique needs and preferences. That's why we specialize in custom made cricket bats.
Our bats are handcrafted to suit various shapes, sizes, and weights, ensuring that every player's personal requirements are met.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, our range of cricket bats made in West Sussex offers something for everyone.
Affordable Quality
We believe that quality shouldn't come at an unaffordable price. Our range of cricket bats made in West Sussex includes options in different willows, catering to all budgets without compromising on quality.
Whether you're looking for a bat for professional play or leisure, our collection is designed to meet the diverse needs of cricketers everywhere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the process of cricket bat binding might seem minor in the grand scheme of cricket bat manufacturing, but its impact on the performance and longevity of a bat cannot be overstated.
At Trogon Cricket, we take pride in offering custom made cricket bats that cater to every cricketer's unique needs.
Whether you require cricket bat rehandling services or are in search of a new bat that fits your style and budget, our cricket bats made in West Sussex are a testament to our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Remember, a well-bound cricket bat handle is not just an accessory; it's a necessity for every serious cricketer.
Buying With Confidence from Trogon
If you've reached this point, I sincerely thank you for reading it all through. Your interest and support mean the world to me, and it's greatly appreciated.
Whether you're here to learn more about our cricket bats or other products or just out of curiosity, your engagement makes a real difference. Thank you for being part of our Trogon journey.
Trogon Product Guarantee
6-month guarantee on all cricket bats. That means if you purchase a bat through us and it breaks, as long as it has been knocked in properly, we will replace it like for like. This is our commitment to you on top of your statutory protections when buying products online.
Click on the below link and see our beautiful collection of round handle and semi-oval handle cricket bats.
