Cricket is a top-rated game worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. It has all the elements of a great sport: strategy, teamwork, and endless entertainment. However, before you go out there and start playing, there are some essentials you must stock up on, including protective gloves and good shoes for cricket. Below are six must-have items that will prepare you for your first time playing this exciting sport:
Cricket Balls
Cricket balls are made of leather and covered with a layer of gum. The ball’s hardness is controlled by its thickness and resilience, affecting its bounce. It may vary in size, shape, and color, but it is generally lighter than a tennis ball but heavier than a baseball. Ball sizes vary between manufacturers, age groups of players, and the type of cricket being played. For example, a junior cricket ball has an approximate circumference of 25–26 cm, while an adult-size ball has an approximate circumference of around 27–28 cm (the exact measurement depends on the brand). You need to buy one that best suits your needs.
Proper Cricket Shoes
Before you take up cricket, getting the right tennis shoes is essential. The right pair of shoes for cricket can make your whole game better. A cricket shoe should have a stiff sole so that you can run fast and play faster. The sole should be flat and light, as well, if it’s not too heavy on the feet. The quality of the shoe also matters because it needs to be durable and comfortable at all times; otherwise, you’ll get tired quickly or even injure yourself while playing in them.
Adhesive Tape
Adhesive tape is an essential addition to your cricket kit. It keeps the batsman’s pads in place and protects the skin from cuts or bruises. The tape can be purchased at any sports store and comes in different sizes, thicknesses, and widths. It is best to use a brand you trust because some tapes are known to cause allergies when they come into contact with your skin, especially if they are not manufactured using quality materials.
Gloves and Arm Pad
The next must-have item you need to consider is the cricket gloves and arm pads. This part of your body will take the most beating when you play, so it’s imperative always to wear this protective gear. You can find these at any sports store or online retailer. When buying gloves and arm pads, ensure they fit snugly but not too tight so they don’t move around while you’re playing. Also, make sure there are no loose parts on them that could cause an injury during the game by hitting your legs or face and causing discomfort when batting/bowling.
Helmet
This is an essential piece of equipment in cricket. It protects your head from mishaps, and it’s also a good idea to wear one for safety reasons. When choosing a helmet, make sure it’s a hard one (such as plastic) and fits your head comfortably. The helmet should be able to fit snugly on top of your forehead so that it doesn’t move around when you’re running or batting. There should be no gaps between the helmet’s rim and your face; this helps prevent injuries from occurring if there is an accident during play.
Conclusion
If you’re a beginner cricket player, this is all the equipment you need to get started. With these items in hand, you’ll be well on your way to hitting sixes and taking wickets like a pro. Let us know your thoughts by commenting below.