When you think about buying new cricket equipment, it’s important to keep in mind what you need it for, and how often you need to use it. If you’re buying a new cricket bat, then you need to think about durability, performance, and price. If you’re buying new cricket clothing, then you need to think about sizing, protection and why you need it – training or games? If you’re buying a new cricket bag, then size, durability and price will all play their part in your buying decision, as well as what you need it for – for example, is it a ball storage bag you need, an accessories bag, or a full kit bag? The answer to this question will then help to determine the size required, the level of durability and how much you’re willing to pay.
There are a number of different styles of cricket bag to choose from, and again your reasons for buying will no doubt play a part in which one is best for your needs.
Wheeled bags
Wheeled cricket bags often tend to be the largest options, as the need for wheels comes when the kit inside is heavy and/or is packed in larger quantities. As an example, the Gunn & Moore ORIGINAL Cricket Wheelie Duffle Bag measures 96cm x 41cm x 32cm whereas the Aero B2 Cricket Duffle Bag which does not have wheels comes in at a smaller size of 86cm x 34cm x 26cm.
Wheeled, or wheelie bags as they’re often known, are very versatile and typically can be stood upright for storage or when not in use. They also have shoulder straps which mean they can be worn as a typical backpack and side pockets to hold accessories, personal belongings, keys etc.
You would look to buy a wheelie bag normally if you are carrying around full cricket kit, or kit for a team. Wheelie bags don’t tend to be bought for single items like balls or bats, as these have their own specific bag options.
It is also possible to get mini cricket wheelie bags which are designed for essential kit or for junior/school players who may have less kit in general to carry around.
Duffle bags
Duffle bags are the slightly smaller option to wheelie bags, and whilst there is a cross over in that wheelie bags usually have handles, duffle bags are the smaller option without wheels. That’s not to say they aren’t practical and versatile, as they are – you can still easily fit full cricket kit inside and benefit from additional pockets and shoulder straps to carry them around.
Duffle bags do vary in size and capacity so it will be important if you’re looking for this option to look at the specifics of each bag before making a decision. Some, like the Kookaburra KAHUNA D4.5 Cricket Duffle Bag also come with padded bat sleeves to keep your batting pads safe.
It is also possible to buy specific cricket bat duffle bags; these are not the same as basic bat covers, as they are oversized and tend to have more padding, as well as external pockets to fit accessories such as gloves. One such example is the Kookaburra KD100 Cricket Duffle Bat Bag.
Backpacks
Cricket backpacks are the next size option down from duffle or mini wheelie bags and are designed primarily to be carried on the back. They are still big enough to hold at least one full sized cricket bag (often two) and also have side pockets and a large main compartment. Some also have footwear pockets and/or front top pockets which can hold helmets or similarly sized accessories.
Cricket backpacks need to be durable as they will be worn during transit and they also need to be as lightweight and comfortable as possible. Some have mesh or padded back panels to help with air circulation and strong seams and zips.
Gym bags
Gym bags are very versatile and can be used to carry smaller equipment and items of kit for many sports. A typical gym bag is lightweight, with cord closures to act as straps, and made from polyester as this is both durable and lightweight.
If you are looking to buy a gym bag to hold your cricket equipment, make sure whatever you need to carry will fit – a typical gym bag would hold smaller items such as footwear, balls, gloves, pads or a helmet. Also bear in mind there is no padding on a gym bag, so whatever’s inside won’t have a huge amount of exterior protection from the bag itself.
Cricket ball bags
Cricket ball bags do what they say they’ll do – provide a secure space for you to carry cricket balls from A to B. most bags have capacity for a number of balls although this does vary – as an example, the Dukes Canvas Cricket Ball Carry Bag has a recommended capacity of up to 24 balls.
Cricket ball bags should have strong hems and a zipped or drawstring closure, a carry strap and should be made from a very durable fabric like cotton canvas.
Cricket bat covers
Cricket bat covers technically fall into the bag category as they are in essence a bag for your bat. They provide a protected place for storage and also have a carry handle for ease of use. A cricket bat inside a cover can then also fit easily inside a larger sized cricket bag for extra protection.