Junior Cricket Bat Guide - What size bat does my child need?
👉Looking for a junior bat? Shop our Junior Cricket Bats here.
Buying a junior cricket bat can feel a bit confusing. There are lots of sizes, different types of willow, and plenty of brands all promising the next Joe Root in the making.
The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated.
At The Cricket Shed, we always say the same thing: Get the right size, the right weight and something your junior actually enjoys using.
Here is our quick guide to help you pick the right bat.
What Size Junior Cricket Bat Do I Need?
Getting the correct size bat is the most important thing for young players. A bat that's too long or too heavy makes it much harder to develop good technique.
A simple rule we often use in the shop is this: stand the bat upright next to your player. The top of the handle should reach roughly around the top of the hip. If it reaches much higher than that the bat is probably too big.
Junior bats usually range from Size 0 up to Harrow, depending on the child's height and age.
Junior Cricket Bat Size Guide
| Bat Size | Approx Age | Player Height |
|---|---|---|
| Size 0 | 4–5 yrs | Up to 4ft |
| Size 1 | 5–6 yrs | 4ft – 4ft3 |
| Size 2 | 6–7 yrs | 4ft3 – 4ft6 |
| Size 3 | 7–8 yrs | 4ft6 – 4ft9 |
| Size 4 | 8–9 yrs | 4ft9 – 4ft11 |
| Size 5 | 9–10 yrs | 4ft11 – 5ft2 |
| Size 6 | 10–11 yrs | 5ft2 – 5ft5 |
| Harrow | 11–13 yrs | 5ft5 – 5ft8 |
(These are only guides - every player is different. If unsure, always choose the lighter or smaller option for better control)
Browse our full range of junior cricket bats
What's the Difference Between Bat Grades?
Cricket bats are graded mainly on the appearance of the willow and performance potential.
Higher graded bats usually have:
- Straighter Grains
- Fewer cosmetic marks
- Cleaner looking willow
Lower grade bats may show natural marks or knots in the wood.
The key thing to know is that lower grade bats can still perform brilliantly. For most junior players a good mid-range bat is often the perfect option - good performance without spending hundreds of pounds.
Kashmir Willow vs English Willow
One of the biggest questions parents ask is about the difference between Kashmir and English willow.
Kashmir Willow
Kashmir willow bats are usually more affordable and very durable. They are ideal for younger players, beginners and soft ball cricket.
English Willow
English willow bats are lighter and offer better performance. These are commonly used once a junior starts playing hard ball cricket regularly.
Many young players start with Kashmir willow and move into English willow as they get older.
Which Bat Should a Junior Start With?
See our recommended junior cricket bats here
Choosing a first bat depends on a few things:
- the age of the player
- the level they are playing at
- the budget
If your child is starting soft ball cricket, a lightweight Kashmir willow bat is usually perfect. They are affordable, durable and great for learning.
For older juniors starting hard ball cricket, a lower grade English willow bat can be a great step up. It offers improved performance while still being reasonably priced.
At the end of the day, the best junior bat is simply one that feels comfortable, is the right size, and gives the player confidence when they walk out to bat.
Looking for a junior cricket bat? | Shop junior cricket bats