Cricket Bat Size Guide for Parents
- AU Sports
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
Helping You Choose the Right Gear for Your Young Cricketer
Choosing the right cricket bat (and other gear!) for your child can be confusing—especially with so many sizes, shapes and prices out there. But don’t worry! At AU Sports, we’ve put together this easy guide to help you make the best choice so your child can play comfortably, confidently and safely.
Why Bat Size Matters
A bat that’s too big or too heavy can:
Make it hard for your child to play proper shots
Cause bad technique or frustration
Even lead to injury
The right bat will feel light, balanced, and easy to swing—giving your child the best chance to enjoy the game and improve quickly.
Cricket Bat Size Chart (Juniors to Adults)
Bat Size | Approx. Age | Player Height | Bat Length (cm/in) | Bat Width (cm/in) |
0 | 4 & under | Up to 4’0” | 61cm / 24” | 8.2cm / 3.25” |
1 | 4–5 | 4’0” – 4’3” | 64cm / 25” | 8.2cm / 3.25” |
2 | 6–7 | 4’3” – 4’6” | 69cm / 27” | 8.2cm / 3.25” |
3 | 8 | 4’6” – 4’9” | 73cm / 28.5” | 8.2cm / 3.25” |
4 | 9–10 | 4’9” – 4’11” | 76cm / 30” | 8.4cm / 3.31” |
5 | 10–11 | 4’11” – 5’2” | 78cm / 31” | 8.4cm / 3.31” |
6 | 11–13 | 5’2” – 5’5” | 81cm / 32” | 8.4cm / 3.31” |
Harrow | 13–15 | 5’5” – 5’7” | 83cm / 33” | 8.6cm / 3.38” |
Small Adult / Academy | 15+ | 5’7” – 5’9” | 85cm / 33.5” | 8.6cm / 3.38” |
Adult (Short Handle) | 15+ | 5’9” – 6’2”+ | 86cm / 34” | 8.6cm / 3.38” |
Tip: If your child is in-between sizes, go with the smaller bat—they’ll find it easier to control.
What Weight Should the Bat Be?
Heavier bats aren’t better for kids—they’re harder to swing and slow down their development. Here’s a simple weight guide with some relatable comparisons:
Weight | Good For… |
1.9 – 2.1 lbs | Younger juniors (Size 1–4) |
2.2 – 2.4 lbs | Older juniors (Size 5–6, Harrow) |
2.7+ lbs | Adult players with strength/technique |
Look for “light pick-up,” not just “lightweight”—a well-balanced bat can feel lighter than the scale says.
How to Choose Pads & Gloves
Batting Pads
Knee-roll should cover the knee cap when standing upright.
Straps should fit snugly but not dig into the legs.
Test: Ask your child to run in them—if they struggle, they’re too big!
Batting Gloves
Fingers should reach close to the tips, but not squash.
Grip should be comfortable, with padding sitting over the knuckles.
Test: Ask your child to “make a fist” and hold a bat—does it feel natural?
What Makes a Good Cricket Bat?
Look for:
English Willow – Best quality for performance and feel.
Even grain pattern – 6–10 straight grains is ideal.
A comfortable handle with good grip.
A “light pick-up” feel that suits your child’s strength and age.
What to Avoid:
Bats that are too heavy—even if they look “cool.”
Poor quality, blemishes in the wood, or very soft willow (these dent quickly).
Final Tips for Parents
Let your child swing the bat before you buy—how it feels is more important than how it looks.
Ask your child’s coach for advice—they’ll know your child’s size, strength and playing style.
Don’t panic if they grow out of it in a season—a smaller, well-fitted bat is always better than a big one they can’t control.
Need Help Choosing?
You could always get in touch with your AU Sports coaching team—we’re always happy to recommend the right gear for your child’s age, size and stage.
