Academy English Willow Cricket Bats

Discover our Academy cricket bats collection, designed to bridge the gap between junior and adult sizes. Perfect for cricketers progressing from Harrow-sized bats, each bat is handmade from premium English willow and available in all grades – Players, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3. Whether you need a lightweight pick-up or a slightly heavier option for extra power, we’ve got you covered. Every Trogon Academy cricket bat is carefully made to offer balance, performance, and durability. Ideal for players aged around 14–16 or anyone not quite ready for a full-size bat.

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Academy Cricket Bats – Handmade English Willow Bats for Progressing Players

Welcome to our Academy cricket bats collection – where performance meets precision for the developing cricketer. Whether you’re moving up from a Harrow bat or looking for something perfectly balanced between junior and full-size, our Academy bats are the ideal step up for players aged approximately 14–16 years old.

Each bat in this collection is handmade in the Trogon workshop using traditional tools, time-honoured methods, and carefully selected English willow. Available in all willow grades – including Players, Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 3 – this range is tailored for cricketers who demand quality, performance, and consistency in every shot.

Why Choose an Academy Cricket Bat?

Academy cricket bats are designed for players who are too big for a Harrow but not quite ready for the full-size Short Handle. They offer the perfect balance of size, weight, and control, helping young cricketers continue to develop their game confidently and comfortably.

These bats are especially suited to:

  • 🏏 Players aged 14–16 making the transition from Harrow bats, but their height and strenght is more important than their age in making this decision.
  • 🏏 Cricketers needing a lighter adult-size bat with full spine and big edges
  • 🏏 Teen players competing in club or school matches who want professional-level performance
  • 🏏 Anyone looking for a bat with the feel of a Short Handle but tailored to developing hands and strength

Handmade from the Finest English Willow

Every Trogon Academy cricket bat is individually handmade at our Sussex workshop. We use only the finest quality English willow, ensuring each cleft meets our strict standards for balance, rebound/ping, and performance. Whether you go for Players grade, Grade 1, 2, or 3, you’re getting a bat that’s been meticulously shaped by our expert bat makers.

We know how important feel and performance are for players at this level – that’s why we test ping, weight distribution, and balance on every bat before it’s listed in this collection. The result? Consistent, game-ready blades designed to give you confidence at the crease to score bucket loads of runs.

Which Grade Is Right for You?

We offer our Academy bats in four grades of willow to suit every cricketer’s budget and preferences:

  • 🌟 Players Grade: Our highest grade willow with exceptional ping, clean faces, and minimal markings – perfect for serious young players aiming for top-level cricket.
  • 💎 Grade 1: Excellent quality willow with great rebound and performance, ideal for regular club cricketers and those playing at county level.
  • 🟢 Grade 2: Fantastic value for money – good grains, minor cosmetic blemishes, but still offers superb performance for developing players.
  • Grade 3: The most affordable option – great for nets, school matches, or casual games, still handmade to our Trogon standard.

Available in a Range of Weights and Handle Shapes

Not all players need the same weight or feel. That’s why our Academy bats come in a wide range of weights from around 2lb 4oz to 2lb 7oz. Whether you prefer something ultra-light for quicker hands or a slightly heavier blade for extra punch, we’ve got a bat that’s right for you.

Handle shapes also matter. We offer:

  • 🔵 Semi-Oval Handles: A traditional shape offering comfort and control in both hands
  • 🔴 Round Handles: Perfect for bottom-hand dominant players who like to play expansive shots

Every detail of these bats is designed to help you find your rhythm, time the ball sweetly, and play your best innings yet.

Built for the Way You Play

Our Academy cricket bats aren’t off-the-shelf blades. They’re made for the way young cricketers play the game today – dynamic, aggressive, skilful. Each bat is shaped for excellent pick-up and performance, featuring large spines, thick edges, and a profile that provides power without sacrificing balance.

And because they’re handmade by our team at Trogon, no two bats are exactly the same. Each one has its own unique character and feel – just like the cricketer it’s made for.

Why Buy an Academy Bat from Trogon?

Handmade in England – every bat made in our Sussex workshop with traditional tools
Custom weight range – choose the exact pick-up that suits your playing style
All grades available – including Players, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3
Trusted by young cricketers across the UK for performance and reliability (read our reviews below)
No shortcuts – no mass production, no imported bats, no compromise on quality

What Makes These Different from Harrow Cricket Bats?

Many players ask us about the difference between Academy cricket bats and Harrow cricket bats. It’s a great question.

While Harrow bats are typically suited to cricketers aged 11–13 (again depending on the child/teenage), Academy bats are that crucial next step up – longer, slightly heavier, and better suited to stronger, more developed players. They’re also designed with bigger profiles and edges for maximum impact while maintaining a manageable weight.

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to move on from Harrow, think about how the bat feels in your hands. Are you finding your current bat too short or too light? Are you starting to face quicker bowling or need more power in your shots? If so, an Academy bat is likely the perfect upgrade.

Ready to Make the Step Up?

If you're serious about your cricket and looking for a bat that will take your game to the next level, a Trogon Academy cricket bat is the way to go. With unrivalled craftsmanship, proven performance, and a full range of willow grades and weights, these bats are built to grow with you as a player.

Explore our collection today and discover the bat that’s right for your game. Every bat you see here is available now – handmade, tested, and ready to be delivered straight to your door. Don't settle for less – get the feel, the power, and the performance that only a Trogon Academy bat can offer.

Make Your Next Bat a Trogon

Whether you’re climbing the ranks in your club team or training hard for school cricket, this is your moment to take a step forward. Choose a bat that matches your ambition.

Browse our Academy cricket bats now and experience the Trogon difference.

Academy English Willow Cricket Bats FAQs


What is an academy cricket bat?

An academy cricket bat is designed for players transitioning between junior (Harrow) and full-size (Short Handle) bats. It offers a slightly longer blade and a balanced weight, making it ideal for 14–16-year-olds or anyone needing a step up in size without committing to a full adult bat.

Who should use an Academy cricket bat?

Academy bats are perfect for developing cricketers who are growing out of their Harrow bat but aren’t quite ready for a full-sized adult bat. They suit players aged around 14 to 16 who want more reach and power without losing control.

What is the difference between Harrow and Academy cricket bats?

Harrow bats are generally shorter and lighter, designed for players aged 11–13. Academy bats are the next step up, offering more length, weight, and power while remaining manageable for teenage players.

Are expensive cricket bats worth it for Academy players?

Yes, especially for committed players. Higher-grade Academy bats, such as Players Grade or Grade 1, offer better ping, feel, and consistency—ideal for those playing regular club or county-level cricket.

How do I choose the right size and weight for my Academy cricket bat?

It depends on your height, strength, and playing style. Academy bats typically range from 2lb 4oz to 2lb 7oz. Lighter options help with timing and control, while slightly heavier bats add more punch to your shots. Always choose a bat that feels comfortable in your hands.

Reasons To Trust Trogon Cricket


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    Handmade in the UK

    Experience the best in traditional craftsmanship, each bat made right here in the UK. Buy with confidence knowing your bat is expertly handmade to deliver premium performance from the first ball.

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    No Minimum Orders

    Order exactly what you need, whether it’s one bat or a full team kit, no restrictions, ever. Enjoy flexible purchasing options designed for players, parents, and clubs of every size.

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    Fast, tracked delivery with DHL means your order arrives quickly, wherever you are. Shop now and get your bat or gear delivered worldwide with express shipping you can trust.

  • An icon for Trogon cricket representing our premium english willow that is used in all our cricket bats

    Premium English Willow

    Only the best English willow, expertly selected for every cricket bat no matter the grade. Buy top-quality English willow bats that guarantee exceptional ping, balance, and longevity.

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    Fast & Friendly Support

    Our responsive team is here to help you choose, buy, or customise your perfect bat.Experience first-class service with advice you can trust and friendly, expert guidance.

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    Same Day Turn Around Available

    Need it now? Order today and benefit from our same-day bat preparation and dispatch. Buy with speed and convenience, perfect for players on tight schedules or last-minute bat needs for the weekend.

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