Cricket Bat Gutting: Introduction
Cricket bat gutting is applying a thin layer of string to the face of a cricket bat to protect it from wear and tear and improve its performance. The string is typically made of nylon or cotton and is applied in a spiral pattern.
It’s typically used around the toe and shoulders of the bat. It can be done during the cricket bat knocking in process or as a repair to match damage.
Why do batters do it?
It helps protect the blade from cracking and splitting and helps extend the lifespan of the bat.
Who uses Cricket Bat Gutting?
Harry Brook, the England star, is a fan. See the picture above.
How do you do Cricket Bat Gutting?
In honour of Harry Brook being the most high-profile user of cricket bat gutting as well as a using a Gray Nicholls bat, I took my Gray Nicholls bat and gutted the toe.
Cricket Bat Gutting: Things you need
- A length of gutting string (nylon or cotton)
- A pair of scissors
- A sharp knife
- PVA glue — other glues can be used, but my preference is for simple PVA wood glue
Step 1: Cut a little bit of string off…
You’ll need this later. All will be revealed.
Step 2: Start the wrap
On the edge of the bat, start the initial wrap.
Step 3: Continue wrapping
Keep the bat gutting tight. Really tight.
Step 4: Create the loop
Around halfway, use the string from the first step and create a loop. You’ll then trap the ‘tail’ of the loop with further wraps.
Step 5: Finish the wrap
Keep the binding really, really tight. This can’t be stressed enough!
When done, clip the bind and feed through the eye of the loop. Then, pull hard on the tails of the loop, which will pull the bind end into the main bandage and secure it.
Step 6: Admire your work and get the glue!
Using the PVA, I rubbed some glue over the binding with my fingers. As it dries, it secures the binds together and tightens the binds further.
Step 7: Clip the tails off
The last step is to take a sharp knife and clip the tail of the bat gutting ends off, leaving a glued, tight bandage. Now play cricket!
Conclusion
Cricket bat gutting is applying a thin layer of string to the face of a cricket bat to protect it from wear and tear and improve its performance. The string is typically made of nylon or cotton and is applied in a spiral pattern.
It doesn’t take long and is popular with some professional players, notably Harry Brook.
Any questions or comments? Feel free to leave them below!