Oiling a cricket bat is vital for its performance and life span. The process involves applying oil (raw linseed oil) to the bat's surface, to enhance its durability and performance.
By penetrating the wood fibres on the very surface of the cricket bat, the oil nourishes the bat, preventing it from drying out and reducing the risk of cracks or damage. Properly oiled, the bat becomes more resilient to the impact of the cricket ball, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Making sure your bat is properly oiled ensures that your bat remains your trusty ally throughout countless innings on the cricket field.
How to oil your bat -
Preparation: Lightly sandpaper the bat's surface with 180-200 grit sandpaper before oiling, ensuring it's clean and smooth
Oiling: Pour enough oil onto the blade of the bat to cover approximately the size of a 50 cent coin
Application: Use either your finger or a cloth to rub the oil into the front, back, sides, and toe of the bat. Avoid getting oil on stickers and do not apply oil to the splice (top 15cm of the blade - below where the handle finishes)
Rest: Allow the bat to lie horizontally (blade up) overnight to let the oil penetrate the wood
How often should I oil my bat -
The frequency of oiling your cricket bat depends on several factors, including how often you use it, the climate you're playing in, and the condition of the bat. As a general guideline, it's recommended to oil your bat at the beginning of each cricket season or when you notice the wood starting to dry out. For regular players, this might mean oiling the bat every few months. However, if you're playing frequently or in dry conditions, you may need to oil it more often, perhaps every 4-6 weeks. Always inspect your bat for signs of dryness or damage, and oil it as needed to keep it in top condition. A good tip to check for oil is to run your thumbnail gently up the surface of your bat - if you can extract any sign of oil, it is well oiled. If there are no signs of oil - chances are your bat is due for some oil.
What type of oil should I use -
Traditionally, raw linseed oil has been the preferred choice for oiling cricket bats due to its ability to penetrate the wood and provide nourishment without creating a thick layer that could affect the bat's performance. Raw linseed oil is often recommended as it retains more of its natural properties compared to boiled linseed oil, which may contain additives.
What should I be careful of when oiling my bat -
When oiling your cricket bat, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure that the process is done correctly and doesn't inadvertently harm the bat:
Over-Oiling: Applying too much oil can lead to a buildup on the surface, which may affect the bat's performance. Use only a small amount of oil and ensure it's spread evenly across the surface.Avoiding Stickers and Splice: Make sure to avoid getting oil on the stickers and the splice of the bat, as this can cause them to peel off or weaken the bond between the bat's handle & blade.
Proper Drying: Allow the bat to dry horizontally with the blade facing up after oiling. This allows the oil to penetrate the wood evenly. Avoid leaning the bat against a wall or surface.
Even Application: Ensure that the oil is rubbed evenly across the entire surface of the bat - but avoid the splice area (top 15cm of the blade - below where the handle finishes), including the front, back, sides, and toe, to provide consistent protection.
By following these steps, you ensure that the bat's wood is properly nourished and protected, enhancing its performance and durability.