Why Bamboo Bats Are Causing A Stir In The World Of Cricket

The debate around cricket bat materials gained steam once again with a study published on May 9, 2021 by researchers from the University of Cambridge, entitled, ‘Replacing willow with bamboo in cricket bats’ (Study).[1] It explored the use of bamboo as an alternative material for making a cricket bat as against the traditional use of willow.
This piece analyzes:
- The history of materials used to make bats and the regulation of the same,
- the legal framework regarding the material from which cricket bats can be made,
- why regulating the material of the bat is required,
- arguments for and against alternative materials for manufacturing bats, and
- comparison with equipment in other sports and recommendations resulting therefrom.
To continue reading or watching login or register here
Already a member? Sign in
Get access to all of the expert analysis and commentary at LawInSport including articles, webinars, conference videos and podcast transcripts. Find out more here.
- Tags: Australia | Cricket | Cricket Bats | equipment | India | International Cricket Council (ICC) | Laws on Cricket | Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) | New Zealand | Regulation & Governance | Sports | sports equipment | United Kingdom (UK)
Related Articles
- How FIBA’s “no headgear rule” highlights the socio-cultural challenges of regulating a sport
- Technological advances in sports equipment: Cheating or evolution? Part 1 -The issues
- Technological advances in sports equipment: Cheating or evolution? Part 2 - Establishing a regulatory framework
- Prioritising player safety: The ICC’s new regulations for cricket helmets
- “Sandpapergate” - Is the ICC doing enough to combat ball tampering in cricket?