How to choose the best bat for tape ball cricket?

Tape ball cricket is an emerging sport in Australia. Players are taking more interest in the game than ever before. By witnessing the potential of the game, Tape ball tournaments are popping up in various parts of the country such as Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, etc. But what is this new sport and why is it gaining the attention of hundreds of thousands of Australians? This blog sheds light on some of the key factors of tape ball cricket and why one should take part in it as well.

What is tape ball cricket?

Having originated in Pakistan, the tape ball is a variation of traditional cricket with some key changes. Instead of playing with a hardball, players wrap a tennis ball with tape. This gives the ball some weight and allows it to act much similar to that of a traditional ball. This form of cricket was originally invented to avoid the high-cost gear of the traditional form of cricket. However, due to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, tape balls have gained much popularity in home countries and are now gaining popularity in Australia. 

How is tape ball different from hardball cricket?

As opposed to traditional cricket, tape ball has some flexibility in rules. Players are allowed to form a team comprising 6 to 11 people, depending on the space. Although the basic rules of the game remain the same, the length of the match can vary. This is because the game can have 5 to 10 overs per inning as per requirement. Furthermore, players are not required to wear protective gear, as tape balls are much safer than traditional hard balls. There is however one major difference that sets the two games apart. Contrary to traditional cricket, tape ball matches can be played anywhere i.e., in parks, in streets, in a stadium, etc. This makes the game much more fun and easier to play.

Tape ball cricket format is much more lenient in rules compared to traditional cricket. Depending on the match, rules may not be enforced strictly or they may be changed to fit the overall environment. For example: Leg Before Wicket (LBW) is rarely enforced in the game. Additionally, in a lot of matches, the boundaries are quite close and the rules of boundaries may also vary. This flexibility and safety make it much more appealing to amateur players.

How to choose the best bat for tape ball cricket?

Choosing the right cricket bat is a difficult task whether it is for tape ball or traditional cricket. This is due to the many factors that influence the performance of a batsman. While choosing a bat for tape ball cricket, you should keep the following factors in mind:

1.   Material

There are many materials used for making cricket bats, some are economical while others are a bit expensive. However, it all depends on the purpose you wish to fulfill with the bat. If you aim to play in an international tournament, playing with a highly expensive bat may not be the right move. Thus, it is advised to first identify the purpose and then look for a bat. The best bat for cricket is the one that fits the batsmen’s needs. Depending on the purpose, you can find the following types of bats available online and in stores:

• English Willow Bat

These bats are made from high-quality English willow and are on the expensive side. Their high density of grains makes them an excellent companion for professional batsmen. Due to their performance and a higher price point, they are mostly used in international formats.

• Kashmir Willow Bat

Kashmir willow bats are also very durable and provide great performance on a more cost-effective budget. Although they are not as good as English willow bats, they are excellent for players seeking good performance on a budget.

• Soft Ball Bat

Softball bats are mainly used for tennis matches. They provide excellent quality and are much more cost-effective than the above-mentioned bats. Softball bats are extensively used in tape ball cricket matches. They are highly durable and provide great support to the batsmen.

2.   Size

Cricket bats come in various sizes. Depending on their height, players can choose different bat sizes. It is advised to consult a cricket bat sizing guide while selecting a bat. This will provide you with an accurate measurement, helping in choosing the right bat for your size. Choosing a bat that is fit for your size is crucial as it properly helps you maintain balance and complements the players while hitting the ball.

3.   Weight

Bats come in various weight categories just as they come in various sizes. It is advised to go for a light bat as it allows the players to easily handle it and hit power shots confidently. Heavy bats delay the response time and are difficult to handle which may tire the player. Additionally, in tape ball cricket, using heavy bats may further affect the game as the ball is much lighter than a hardball.

4.   Grip

Choosing the right grip is another crucial step in choosing the proper bat. Each grip has a unique benefit, serving a different purpose. It is always beneficial to choose different grips depending on the weather conditions. Grips may also vary from person to person. If a player sweats profusely, using an all-purpose grip will impact the player negatively. Thus, special care is necessary when choosing the grips for cricket bats. Crikon has a variety of grips to choose from. We also recommend checking out our detailed guide on how to choose the right grip for your bat. This guide takes into account all the factors related to bat grips.

5.   Budget

One of the most important factors while selecting a cricket bat is budget. Having a well-cut budget is crucial in order to make the right decision. We advise you to first formulate a budget and then write down the important features you require in a bat. This will help you avoid spending unnecessary money. Additionally, it will also ensure that you do not compromise on any of the important features.

Why is Crikon the best cricket partner for you?

Crikon is a premium cricket company in Australia. We have a wide range of products to choose from. This makes us the perfect partner for any player or team looking to purchase different cricket products all from one place. We have a variety of gear both for traditional as well as tape ball cricket. Apart from producing high-quality products, we take pride in providing a high-quality experience to our customers. If you are unsure about which product to purchase, you can contact us via our contact form. Get in touch with us and allow us to help you find the right product for you. Find your desired products listed on our website and place an order today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is protective gear required in tape ball matches?

No, generally protective equipment is not required in a tape ball match. That is because of the soft nature of the ball. However, if you play competitive matches where you suspect injuries, wearing protective equipment would be advised.

How to properly tape a tennis ball?

Taping a tennis ball can be a bit technical. However, it can be mastered easily. You should start with electrical tape on one end and cover the ball in a diagonal pattern. Make sure to add two layers of tape to ensure even tape distribution.

Can kids play tape ball cricket?

Yes. Tape ball matches can be easily played by people of all ages. Tape ball is a much safer option for children who wish to play cricket at a younger age. This form of cricket is very friendly and can be played indoors as well as outdoors. You do not need a proper field, as you can play in the streets as well. Moreover, the rules are much more flexible which can be adjusted as per your environment.

Are there any tape ball tournaments in Australia?

There are many tournaments in Australia, with some notable matches in Sydney, Melbourne, etc. You should join online communities to stay up-to-date on the latest tournaments and events. You should also have a keen eye on online websites that feature such tournaments.