Wicketkeeper Gloves in Cricket
Everything about wicketkeeper gloves — design, Laws, how they work, and what makes keeper gloves different from regular cricket gloves.
Wicketkeeper gloves are specialised protective gloves that allow the keeper to catch and stop the ball at speed while protecting the hands from injury. They are the most distinctive piece of wicketkeeping equipment and are regulated under the Laws of Cricket.
Design and Construction
Keeper gloves are made of leather with webbing between the thumb and index finger to increase catching area. The webbing is reinforced but must not protrude above the edge of the glove when the hand is flat. Internal padding protects the fingers and palm from the force of fast deliveries.
Laws Governing Keeper Gloves
Under Law 27 of the Laws of Cricket, only the wicketkeeper is permitted to wear gloves while fielding. No other fielder may wear gloves. The gloves must conform to the specifications in the Regulations — particularly that any webbing must not protrude when the hand is open.
Inner Gloves
Wicketkeepers also wear inner gloves (a thin liner) beneath the main gloves for additional protection and to absorb perspiration. The inner gloves are visible when the outer gloves are removed and are always worn.
Evolution of Keeper Gloves
- Early gloves were simple leather pads without webbing.
- Modern gloves use advanced foam padding and synthetic webbing reinforcement.
- Leading brands include Kookaburra, Gray-Nicolls, SG, and Gunn & Moore.
- Some keepers prefer stiffer gloves for stumpings; others prefer flexible gloves for diving catches.
Frequently asked questions
Can a batsman wear gloves?
Batsmen wear batting gloves to protect their hands, but these are different from wicketkeeper gloves — they do not have webbing and are not governed by the same Laws.
What is the maximum size for keeper gloves?
The Laws specify that the webbing must not protrude above the edge of the glove when flat. There is no absolute size limit, but the gloves must not give an unfair fielding advantage.