Cricket, a sport cherished and played globally, is as much about skill and technique as it is about the right equipment. A crucial element in a cricket bat that often goes unnoticed is the handle, and it surprises me every day that batters don't pay much attention to them.
At Trogon Cricket, we understand the importance of the perfect handle for every player, and we take this approach in every bat we make, from our cricket bats for 8 year olds to adult short-handle bats. Cricket bat handles come in various types, and selecting the right one can significantly impact your game.
So keep reading and get all the nitty-gritty details about handles and what you should look out for.
Understanding Handle Composition: Singapore Cane and Rubber
We craft our handles with a blend of Singapore cane and rubber. This combination is not accidental, but intentional. The Singapore cane provides the essential rigidity and strength, while the rubber inserts are crucial for shock absorption.
When a cricket ball hits the bat, the impact generates vibrations, and the rubber in the handle helps mitigate these, offering a more comfortable and controlled batting experience.
What are Cricket Bat Handles Made of?
While Singapore cane and rubber are the standard materials, not all handles are made equal.
Singapore cane is preferred over other types (like Indian cane) because of its naturally high strength-to-weight ratio and flexibility. This means it can withstand the stresses of fast bowling while still giving that slight flex that batters love when timing shots.
The rubber inserts also play a crucial role; some handles utilise cork or composite materials for added vibration damping. These combinations create subtle performance differences that experienced players can often feel in the balance, rebound, and comfort of their shots.
Types of Handles at Trogon Cricket
The 12-Piece Cricket Bat Handle: Premium Choice for Durability
Our 12-piece handle is the epitome of quality and endurance. Preferred by players wielding our Players or Players Pro bats, this handle is designed for longevity. Its numerous pieces ensure a stiffer structure, maintaining strength over prolonged use.
The Versatile 6-Piece Cricket Bat Handle
The 6-piece handle strikes a balance between quality and adaptability. This handle, commonly paired with our Grade 1 and Butterfly willow bats, is also our go-to choice for bat repairs. It offers a reliable performance for various playing styles.
The Flexible 4-Piece Cricket Bat Handle
For those seeking a more flexible option, our 4-piece handle is the ideal choice.
It's the standard for all our Grade 2 cricket bats and is known for its quick adaptation to flex during play, making it suitable for dynamic batting styles.
Which Handle Is Best for Power Hitters or Aggressive Players?
For power hitters or players who love to dominate bowlers, a firmer handle, such as a 12-piece handle or a semi-oval shape, is often the preferred choice.
These designs provide extra rigidity, ensuring more of your power transfers directly into the ball instead of being lost through handle flex.
A stiffer handle also offers excellent stability, particularly during lofted drives or powerful pulls. Many professional players opt for this combination because it enhances precision and enables explosive shot-making under pressure.
Why Do Cricket Bats Have Different Handles?
The variety in cricket bat handles exists because no two players are the same. Some prefer a stiffer handle for added power and control, while others like more flex to help absorb shock.
The handle design directly influences how the bat feels during play. A flexible handle can add whip and rhythm for stroke-makers, while a stiffer handle helps aggressive players transfer more energy into the ball.
Manufacturers design different handle constructions and shapes to cater to personal preferences, batting styles, and even the type of pitch being played on.
Customising Your Grip: Handle Shapes for Different Playing Styles
Cricket Bat Round Handle: For the Back-Foot Player
The cricket bat's round handle is tailored for players who prefer playing off the back foot. Its uniform height and width at the bottom aid players who rely heavily on their bottom hand.
This handle type facilitates a firm grip and swift movements for back-foot shots.
Cricket Bat Semi Oval Handle: The Best of Both Worlds
The cricket bat's semi-oval handle is designed for players who alternate between front-foot and back-foot play. Its slightly taller height and rounded sides offer a comfortable grip that doesn't compromise on flexibility for cross-bat shots.
This handle embodies versatility in batting and helps reduce bat swivelling in your hand when hitting the ball.
Cricket Bat Oval Handle: For the Front-Foot Dominant Player
The cricket bat oval handle is perfect for front-foot players. Its taller and narrower shape at the bottom ensures that the bottom hand stays less dominant during straight bat shots. This handle shape allows for precision and control, particularly for front-foot play.
Global Craftsmanship: A Diverse Approach to Handle Making
Cricket bat making is an art practised by craftsmen worldwide, each with their unique approach. Despite the differences in techniques and styles, the goal remains the same: to produce a handle that enhances the player's performance.
At Trogon, we respect and acknowledge these diverse methods, understanding that they all contribute to the rich tapestry of cricket equipment craftsmanship.
How Does Handle Type Affect Bat Performance or Feel?
The handle type affects far more than just grip; it influences how the bat performs with every shot.
A round handle offers better manoeuvrability for quick wrist flicks, while a semi-oval handle provides better alignment and control for front-foot play.
Meanwhile, the internal structure (4-, 6-, or 12-piece) changes how the bat flexes upon impact.
A flexible handle can make the bat feel lighter and easier to swing, while a stiffer handle creates a more solid, direct response.
Ultimately, the proper handle enhances confidence, timing, and consistency for every batter, but it is a personal choice and what the batter is used to.
Can You Replace or Change a Cricket Bat Handle?
Yes, a cricket bat handle can be replaced if it becomes cracked, loose, or overly soft due to wear and tear over time.
Handle replacement is a specialist task that involves removing the old handle, fitting a new one securely, and rebinding the splice area.
At Trogon Cricket, our repair team can replace any handle, round, oval, or semi-oval—while preserving the bat’s original balance and feel. This service is ideal for players who love their current bat profile but need to restore its performance without purchasing a completely new one.
What Is a Short-Handle Bat vs a Long-Handle Bat?
A short-handle (SH) bat is the most common size used by adult players, designed for those around 5’7” to 6’2” in height.
A long-handle (LH) bat, on the other hand, has a slightly longer handle (about 1 inch extra) and is best suited to taller players or those who prefer extra leverage. While both perform similarly, a long-handle bat can feel slightly top-heavy, offering greater power at the expense of some control.
Most professionals and club cricketers prefer short-handle bats for their balanced pick-up and control, but long-handle options remain popular for players seeking that extra reach and punch.
Conclusion: Trogon Cricket’s Commitment to Customisation and Quality
At Trogon Cricket, we are not just manufacturers; we are craftsmen. We understand that every player is unique, with specific needs and preferences. That's why we offer handmade cricket bats tailored to fit all shapes, sizes, and weights.
Our customisation extends to the handle types and the number of pieces, ensuring that every bat we produce meets the player's individual requirements. Moreover, our range of stock cricket bats, available in various willows and at different price points, ensures that there's something for everyone.
Choose Trogon for a cricket bat that genuinely matches your style and budget.
Playing Our Part in Your Cricket Story
We know that cricket is more than just a game; it’s a passion, a community, and a lifetime of memories. That’s why every Trogon bat is made with care, dedication, and pride. We see our role as more than just bat makers; we’re part of your cricket journey.
From the first knock in the nets to the biggest innings of your career, we want to be there with you.
Choosing Trogon means choosing a bat made with honesty, integrity, and the same love for the game that you carry to the crease.
Trogon Product Guarantee
When you buy from Trogon, you’re covered by our 6-month bat guarantee. If your bat cracks or breaks within that period and has been knocked in correctly, we’ll replace it with a new one, simple, fast, and hassle-free. Combine that with your statutory online protections, and you can shop with total peace of mind.
