Our pre-knocked bats have about half the knocking-in done by machine before dispatch. Finish the rest yourself before match use:

1. Tap the face gently with an old, good-quality ball or a bat mallet, building up the force slowly.
2. Work the edges and the toe at an angle, so they are rounded off, never hit them square on.
3. Move on to short catching practice and throw-downs with an old ball.
4. Then nets with old balls, before you use the bat in a match.

We email you a step-by-step knocking-in guide when your bat is dispatched.

• Fit a toe guard to protect the toe from moisture and knocks.
• An anti-scuff sheet on the face helps hold the willow together and reduces surface wear.
• Avoid new, very hard or poor-quality balls until the bat is fully knocked in.

• Use a light coat of raw linseed oil on bare willow only, such as the edges, toe and back. Don't oil over stickers, the handle or an anti-scuff sheet.
• Lay the bat flat to dry overnight, face up.
• A thin coat is enough. Too much oil makes the willow heavy and dead.

• Store your bat in its cover, in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
• Never leave it in a car boot or near a heater: heat and sudden changes in temperature can cause cracking.
• Keep it out of the rain and damp. If it gets wet, wipe it dry and let it dry naturally at room temperature.