Knocking in is a key step before heading to the crease. Here’s how to knock in a cricket bat to ensure it doesn't break upon first contact with a ball
Just got a brand new cricket bat? Exciting times. Think about all the runs you'll score with that beautiful piece of wood.
If it’s your first time getting a bat that’s not already knocked in, you'll want to know how to do it properly.
This essential process helps protect your bat from cracking and boosts its performance, giving you a bigger and better sweet spot. Whether you’re facing fast bowlers or just getting into the game, knocking in is a key step before heading to the crease.
Here’s how to knock in a cricket bat.
Using a ball to knock in your cricket bat can work, but it’s not the most efficient method. Tapping an old cricket ball gently against the bat’s face and edges, gradually increasing force over time.
Focus on the middle and round off the edges by hitting them at an angle. While it takes longer than a mallet, it’s still useful for some final match prep after mallet knocking.
A hardwood bat mallet is the gold standard for knocking in. After oiling (more on that later), strike the face firmly but carefully to create small dents.
Gradually even them out until the surface is smooth.
Work your way around the edges at a 45-degree angle (never 90) as this helps round them off and protect against damage. Little and often is key: aim for 10–15 sessions of 10 minutes each.
You’ll need around 2 to 3 hours in total, spread across multiple sessions. Knocking in a bat is a gradual process, not a one-day job. That gives the willow time to adjust and strengthens the surface evenly.
Avoid rushing. Start with gentle taps and slowly build up pressure. Once you’ve done this, test it in the nets with an old ball. If deep seam marks appear, it’s not ready yet.
Top tip: If possible, somewhere private or secluded. It’s a noisy process and can seriously annoy your flatmates or neighbours.
In total, plan for around 2 to 3 hours of knocking in, broken up into manageable chunks.
Ten-minute sessions give you time to focus on the details and prevent over-compressing one area. Always aim for consistency.
Check your progress regularly under a light to ensure you’re compressing the face evenly. Once done, a few net sessions with old balls will finish it off.
Just don’t invite your quicker mates. (If they do turn up, get them to bowl their dodgy off-breaks or something).
Oiling is vital to ensure the wood is even stronger.
Use raw linseed oil (not boiled), and apply about a teaspoon to the bat’s face, edges and toe using your fingers. Let each layer soak in overnight and repeat three times before knocking in.
This makes the fibres more supple, helping them knit together and reducing the chance of cracks. A well-oiled bat will have a stronger, more elastic surface.
