New Balance DC 1000 Max Junior Cricket Bat – Grade 2 English Willow Junior Bat

• Grade 2 / J2 English Willow in the current verified specification provides a strong combination of performance, feel and value
• Mid-to-low sweet spot provides versatile performance for front-foot and all-round stroke play
• Large edges and substantial hitting area help provide strong power potential across the blade
• Celebrated New Balance DC profile is designed for stroke-makers who like to score around the wicket
• Semi-oval cane handle helps provide stability, control and a comfortable feel in the hands
• Balanced pickup helps junior players generate bat speed without the bat feeling unnecessarily heavy
• New Balance Dynamic White / Blue grip provides secure and comfortable hand positioning where supplied
• Natural English willow finish gives the blade a traditional premium appearance
• Junior-focused performance combines a powerful profile with manageable pickup for developing players
• Suitable for competitive hard-ball cricket including school, club, academy and pathway cricket

• Junior cricketers
• School cricket players
• Junior club cricketers
• Academy and pathway players
• Attacking batters
• Front-foot stroke-makers
• Players who prefer a mid-to-low sweet spot
• Players wanting large edges and a substantial hitting area
• Junior players progressing into quality English willow bats
• Training, net sessions and competitive match play

• Check the exact preparation level of your individual bat before use, as preparation can vary between supplier stock and seasons.
• English willow cricket bats should be properly knocked in before being used against a new leather cricket ball unless specifically supplied fully match ready.
• Carefully prepare the face, edges and toe, gradually increasing the force used during the knocking-in process.
• Begin with throwdowns or controlled net sessions using an older cricket ball before progressing to full competitive match play.
• Check the blade regularly for seam marks, surface cracks and edge damage so minor issues can be addressed early.
• Consider using an anti-scuff sheet and toe protection to help reduce surface wear and moisture damage.
• Store the bat in a cool, dry place and avoid excessive moisture, extreme heat and prolonged direct sunlight.

Choosing a cricket bat comes down to four things: size, weight, willow and how it feels in your hands.

• Size: most adults use a Short Handle bat. For juniors, choose by height, and if they're between sizes, go smaller.
• Weight: pick the heaviest bat you can swing comfortably for a whole innings, not the heaviest you can lift.
• Willow: English willow is lighter and livelier for hard-ball cricket. Kashmir willow is tougher and more affordable, great for a first bat.
• Knocking in: a new English willow bat needs knocking in before you face a leather ball, unless it's sold as Play Now or Match Ready.

Read the full cricket bat buying guide

Prefer to talk it through? Visit us at Western Sports Centre in Derrimut or call 0450 227 972.