Cricket Bat Rules: Size, Weight, and Material Specifications
Learn the official rules governing cricket bats — maximum dimensions, the 38mm edge rule, material regulations, and what's changed since the Spirit of Cricket debates.
Cricket bats are governed by MCC Law 5, which specifies maximum dimensions, materials, and permitted coatings. Changes to bat regulations have been contentious — bigger bats in modern cricket have shifted the bat-ball balance significantly.
Official bat dimensions
| Part | Maximum measurement |
|---|---|
| Total length | 96.5 cm (38 inches) |
| Blade width | 10.8 cm (4.25 inches) |
| Blade depth (thickness of bat face) | No limit specified |
| Edge thickness | 40 mm — introduced 2017 |
| Shoulder depth | 67.5 mm — introduced 2017 |
| Material | Wood only (typically willow) |
The 2017 edge rule
Until 2017, there was no restriction on the depth of the bat's edges. Bat manufacturers had progressively increased edge thickness — some edges exceeded 50mm by 2016. This increased the sweet spot size dramatically and contributed to higher T20 scoring rates. The MCC introduced a 40mm edge limit and 67.5mm shoulder limit in October 2017 to rebalance the game.
Material rules
The blade of a bat must be made of wood. English willow and Kashmir willow are the two standard materials. English willow (Salix alba caerulea) is softer and better for performance; Kashmir willow is harder and cheaper. Carbon-fibre bats and aluminium bats are illegal in professional cricket.
Coatings and preparation
Bats are typically treated with linseed oil to prevent cracking. Protective coverings (clear tape or binding) may be added to the back of the bat but must not exceed 1.56mm in thickness. Coloured bats (pink or other) are permitted in certain formats.
Bat size and run rates
Analysis of run rates in T20 cricket shows a significant increase in scoring from 2010 to 2020. Bat manufacturers openly marketed 'thick-edged' bats as performance tools. The 2017 rule change slowed the trend. However, bat technology continues to evolve — including pressed willow and 'power arc' profiles that maximise the central sweet spot within the rules.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum size of a cricket bat?
A cricket bat can be a maximum of 96.5 cm long and 10.8 cm wide. Since 2017, edges cannot exceed 40mm in depth.
What wood are cricket bats made of?
Cricket bats must be made of wood. English willow is the preferred material for professional bats; Kashmir willow is common in lower grades.
Why did the MCC change bat rules in 2017?
Bat edges had grown to over 50mm by 2016, giving batters a significantly larger sweet spot and increasing scoring rates. The MCC introduced the 40mm edge limit to restore balance between bat and ball.