Junior Cricket Bat Size Guide for Children
Choosing the correct junior cricket bat size helps children develop technique, control and confidence. This guide explains how to measure, choose and buy the right bat for young players.
What size cricket bat should a child use?
A child should use a cricket bat sized primarily by height, not age. Children of the same age can vary significantly in height, so height-based sizing improves swing comfort, balance and technique.
Junior cricket bats typically range from size 0 to Harrow, with each size designed for a specific height range.
How do you measure a child for a cricket bat?
- Ask the child to stand upright wearing their cricket shoes.
- Stand the bat upright next to them.
- The top of the handle should reach roughly the child’s hip or waist. If it reaches the ribs or chest, the bat is too large.
Correct sizing helps the child grip comfortably and swing with control, which supports better timing and cleaner contact.
Junior cricket bat sizes by height
Recommended junior cricket bat sizes by child height and age
Use height first, then sense-check with the approximate age range. If your child sits between sizes, prioritise a bat with a lighter pickup rather than sizing up too early.
Recommended junior cricket bat sizes by child height and age
Use height first, then sense-check with the approximate age range. If your child sits between sizes, prioritise a bat with a lighter pickup rather than sizing up too early.
| Bat size | Child height | Approx age |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4'0"–4'3" | 4–5 |
| 2 | 4'3"–4'6" | 6–7 |
| 3 | 4'6"–4'9" | 7–9 |
| 4 | 4'9"–5'0" | 9–11 |
| 5 | 5'0"–5'3" | 10–12 |
| 6 | 5'3"–5'6" | Over 12 |
| Harrow | 5'6"+ | - |
Tip: if the child is between heights, prioritise a bat with a lighter pickup rather than sizing up too early.
What happens if a cricket bat is too big for a child?
- Poor swing mechanics - the child compensates to move the bat.
- Slower bat speed - reducing timing and shot quality.
- Reduced control - leading to mishits and frustration.
- More fatigue - particularly for younger players in longer sessions.
A correctly sized bat helps young players strike cleanly and build coordination faster.
Beginner cricket bats for children
Beginner junior cricket bats should be lightweight, durable and easy to control. Younger players often benefit from a balanced bat with a lighter pickup so they can learn strokes safely.
Entry-level bats are ideal for school cricket, garden play and early club training.
Explore our junior cricket bat range.
Stocked junior bat brands include Kookaburra, Gunn & Moore and Hunts County
FAQs
Should I choose a junior cricket bat by age or height?
Height is more accurate than age. Use age only as a starting point, then confirm the correct size using the height table and measurement method.
Where should the bat handle reach when sizing a child?
With the bat upright and the child wearing shoes, the top of the handle should reach roughly the hip or waist.
Is it okay to buy a bat a size bigger so they can grow into it?
It’s usually better to avoid sizing up too early. Oversized bats reduce control and slow technique development.