How Cricket Bats Are Crafted , cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world. Having originated in 16th century England, the sport spread to several English colonies where it remains widely revered to this day. With such a large following comes the need for cricket equipment—especially cricket bats.
In Sialkot, Pakistan, MB Malik Sports has been fabricating handmade cricket bats out of imported English willow—with the handles being made of cane imported from Singapore—using some machinery and handcrafted labor since 1964.
In this episode of “MADE HERE,” we take you through the cricket bat production process starting with turning a raw piece of wood into a beautifully finished product ready for play.
From whittling, shaving, and sanding the wood down, the art of making cricket bats requires precision and a discerning eye to make sure all angles and curves are perfect. Once the bats have been shaped and the handles have been attached, they’re ready for branded stickers and worldwide shipping. How Cricket Bats Are Crafted
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Crafting Process of Cricket Bats
Introduction :
Cricket bats, essential tools in the sport, undergo a meticulous crafting process, combining tradition with modern techniques. The art of creating these bats involves several stages, each crucial in shaping the final product.
Selection of Willow :
- Willow Grading: Skilled craftsmen select premium English willow clefts based on grading, ensuring optimal performance and appearance.
- Wood Preparation: The chosen cleft is processed, allowing it to acclimatize and stabilize before crafting begins.
Shaping and Pressing :
- Initial Shaping: Craftsmen mark the bat’s outline and commence shaping using specialized tools like a drawknife or lathe.
- Pressing: The shaped blade undergoes pressing to enhance density, ensuring durability and power in the hitting area.
Handle Fitting and Joining :
- Handle Creation: Handles, often made from cane or composite materials, are shaped and treated for strength and flexibility.
- Joining Process: The handle is affixed to the blade with adhesives and secured tightly, ensuring a seamless connection.
Sanding and Polishing :
- Sanding: The bat undergoes meticulous sanding to smoothen the surface, ensuring a flawless finish.
- Polishing: A final touch involves applying multiple layers of linseed oil, enhancing the wood’s appearance and protecting it from moisture.
Quality Assessment :
- Testing: Each crafted bat undergoes rigorous testing for weight, balance, and performance to meet quality standards.
- Finishing Touches: Minor adjustments, such as refining the shape or adding grips, are made based on player preferences.
Conclusion
Crafting cricket bats requires expertise and attention to detail, merging tradition with innovation to produce high-performance tools. The process involves precision at every stage, ensuring the final product meets the demands of players, both amateur and professional.
