Rehandle My Cricket Bat in Cambridgeshire: Everything You Need to Know
Over time, cricket bats experience wear and tear, and one of the most common issues is handle damage.
If you’re based in Cambridgeshire and wondering whether your beloved bat can be restored to its prime, the good news is that rehandling can breathe new life into your cricket bat.
This blog post will walk you through the process of cricket bat rehandling, why it’s needed, and the meticulous steps involved in the procedure.
Let’s delve deeper into the art and importance of rehandling cricket bats.
Why Do Cricket Bats Need Rehandling?
The handle of a cricket bat is its lifeline but it also has a lifespan. The handles are made from Singapore cane and often reinforced with rubber or cork for shock absorption, the handle comes under immense stress every time the bat strikes the ball.
Over time, this can lead to wear and damage after all its a natural product, just like your bat.
Here are some of the most common reasons cricketers seek rehandling services:
1. Cracks in the Handle
Cracks can develop in the handle due to repeated impact. These cracks may seem minor at first but can grow, leading to reduced shock absorption and a wobbly feel.
2. Handle Splitting
A split handle is a clear sign that rehandling is needed. This type of damage often occurs due to poorly-timed shots or extended use of the bat without adequate maintenance.
3. Loosening or Detachment
Over time, the adhesive that binds the handle to the blade can weaken, causing the handle to loosen. This affects the stability of the bat and has a wippy feel when you hit the ball.
4. Uncomfortable Handle Shape
Handles come in various shapes—oval, semi-oval, and round. A poorly matched handle shape can affect a player's grip and swing. Some players opt for rehandling to customize the shape for optimal comfort.
5. Repeated Repairs Have Weakened the Handle
If a bat has undergone multiple minor repairs, such as taping or gluing, it may be time to consider a full rehandle for a more permanent solution.
The Rehandling Process Explained
Rehandling is a highly skilled process. It ensures that the bat maintains its balance, strength, and performance after the new handle is fitted, the most important factor is making sure the handle is central to the blade, you will be amazed by the amount of bat makers/repairers who rehandle and don't have the new handle central.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how your cricket bat is rehandled:
Step 1: Cutting the Splice
The first step involves carefully cutting the splice—the "V" section at the base of the handle that connects it to the blade.
This is done with a circular saw and custom made jigs, to avoid damaging the surrounding willow, it has taken months if not years to make sure the angles are correct.
Step 2: Removing the Old Handle
Once the splice is cut, the damaged or old handle is cut out entirely. Any remnants of glue, tape, or rubber are carefully cleaned to prepare the bat for the new handle.
Step 3: Fitting the New Handle
A new handle, made from high-quality Singapore cane, is then fitted into the splice of the bat. Before we glue the handle we are looking for a snug fit, some people call it a submarine door fit, no gaps and you should be able to bounce the cricket ball on the bat, even though the handle isn't glued.
Step 4: Securing the Handle
Once the handle is in place, it is glued and bound tightly with durable adhesive and then glamped to make sure the bond is 100%.
The above image shows a cricket bat that was recently in our workshop. You can see the splice 'V' cut into the blade, we have cut through the stickers and you can see our clamp to make sure the handle is glued.
Step 5: Shaping the Handle
The new handle is shaped and finished according to the bat’s original specifications or the player’s preferred handle style, either round, oval or semi-oval, which ensures continuity in how the bat feels when being used.
Additional Details: The Role of the Splice and Covering Stickers
When cutting the splice during rehandling, a “V”-shaped section is removed from the bat’s covering stickers.
While this might affect the bat’s aesthetic, it is necessary to access and work on the splice. Once the rehandling is complete, this area is reinforced with F/G (fiberglass) tape. The tape not only strengthens the splice but also protects it from future wear and tear.
The above is our process at WG, some other bat makers do things differently. You can see the image above shows the Fibre glass tape across the spliced area.
Benefits of Rehandling Your Cricket Bat
A well-executed rehandle can restore your bat to its original glory, every batter will tell you once you find a blade that you love, you want to keep it for as long as you possibly can.
Here are some key benefits of opting for a professional rehandling service:
- Extended Lifespan: Rehandling gives your cricket bat a new lease on life, ensuring it lasts for many more matches if not seasons.
- Improved Performance: A securely fitted handle restores the bat’s structural integrity, allowing you to play with confidence.
- Customization: Rehandling allows you to modify the handle shape or grip style to better suit your playing technique.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in rehandling is significantly more affordable than purchasing a new bat, especially if the blade is still in good condition.
Why Choose WG Willow for your Professional Rehandling Services?
Rehandling a cricket bat is not a DIY job. It requires specialized tools, jigs, knowledge, and experience to ensure that the bat’s performance is not compromised, it can take years to get it right.
Choosing a professional service ensures:
- Expert Craftsmanship: Our skilled bat makers at WG have the experience to handle delicate operations like cutting the splice and fitting a new handle.
- High-Quality Materials: Professional services use top-grade cane handles and adhesives to ensure durability.
- Attention to Detail: From shaping the handle to matching the original specifications, every detail is meticulously executed.
Maintaining Your Bat After Rehandling
After your bat has been rehandled, it’s important to care for it to maximize its lifespan and performance.
Here are some maintenance tips:
- Use Protective Covers: Always store your bat in a protective cover to shield it from moisture and dirt - we can fit these for you.
- Apply Bat Wax: Regularly applying bat wax keeps the willow moisturized and prevents cracking.
- Avoid Overuse: Alternate between bats during practice and matches to prevent excessive wear on one bat - we would recommend this would be a good time for a replica cricket bat.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your bat regularly for signs of damage, especially around the splice and handle.
Once the bat has been rehandled, applying a anti scuff to the front is certainly worth while to protect the face of the bat further.
Where to Rehandle Your Cricket Bat in Cambridgeshire
If you’re looking for expert rehandling services in Cambridgeshire, WG Willow offers meticulous rehandling for cricket bats of all makes and models.
Our skilled craftsmen (Gary Sandford) ensure that every bat is restored with precision and care, preserving its performance and balance.
Conclusion
Rehandling is an essential service that restores the integrity and performance of your cricket bat. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked, split, or loose handle, professional rehandling can save your bat and keep you in the game.
In Cambridgeshire, WG willow is here to assist with all your rehandling needs. Trust us to give your bat the professional attention it requires, so you can step onto the pitch with confidence.
For those who take their cricket seriously and want a bat that reflects their unique style and needs, WG Willow is the name to trust. With Gary Sandford’s craftsmanship and personal attention in every bat, we’re proud to be Cambridgeshire's premier destination for high-quality cricket bats and cricket bat repairs.
For all cricket bat enquiries you can contact Gary on gary@wgwillow.com or WhatsApp him on +44 07722 963888 and he will answer all your questions.