10 Best Kookaburrra Bats

Here is the list of the best Kookaburra Cricket bats reviewed for 2024. View all the info on every bat that made a list to make an informed decision.  Buy Cricket bats online and get the best advice on different types of Kookaburra bats.

Kookaburra bats - Easy Comparison Guide

🏏Kookaburra Cricket Bats✔Type of Willow🔮Handle typeđŸ”„Toe type🏏Sweet Spot☑Edge👍Weight (Grams)🔎Spine👋Suitable👉Bat size
KOOKABURRA KAHUNA PROEnglish Willow (Grade1)OvalRoundMid35-38mm1,134-1,19064-68 mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA GHOST PROEnglish Willow (Grade1)OvalRoundMid35-38mm1,150-1,21064-68 mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA AURA PROEnglish Willow (Grade1)Semi-OvalRoundMid36-38mm1,134-1,19064-68 mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA RAPID PRO CRICKET BATEnglish Willow (Grade1)Semi-OvalRoundHigh-Mid30-33mm1,077-1,13463-65mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA BEAST LITE CRICKET BATEnglish Willow (Grade4)Semi OvalSquare TaperMid-High32-35mm1,077-1,13462-65mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA BUBBLE PRO CRICKET BATEnglish Willow (Grade1)OvalRoundMid34-40mm1,150-1,21065-57mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA TARON 1.1 CRICKET BATEnglish Willow (Grade 1)OvalRoundMid-High35-37mm1,106-1,21958-62mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
KOOKABURRA VAPOR 3.1 CRICKET BATEnglish Willow (Grade 3)OvalRoundHigh36-38mm1,134-1,19064-68mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
Empower Pro PlayersEnglish Willow (Grade 2)OvalRoundHigh32-35mm1,106-1,21962-65mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH
SHADOW PRO PLAYERSEnglish Willow (Grade 3)OvalSquareMid35-38mm1,13462-65mmHeight 5'9 Age 15 +SH

Average Price English willow

+-R2500 then upwards

Head office

 218 Chesterville Road, Moorabbin

Where to Purchase

Online or direct

Established

1890

Willow type

Kashmir Willow, English Willow

Quality

Diffrent prices for different grade willow

1. Kahuna Pro Kookaburra bats

Kookaburra bats  used by many Cricket legends of the world.  Kahuna is endorsed by Ricky Ponting and was first developed in 2001.  AB De Villiers also made the Kahuna range popular with his all-around shot-making.

Kookaburra Kahuna top profile
Kahuna top profile
Kookaburra Front profile
Kahuna face profile
Kookaburra Kahuna profile

Middle

Approximately 215mm to 235 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 35mm to 38mm

Edge Profile

Rounded

Face Profile

Curved

Toe Profile

Standard(Rounded)

Spine Height

Approximately 64 mm to 68 mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Approximately 11mm to 12 mm

Handle

Oval

Grip

Vertex Grip

The Kahuna is 20 years the mainstay in the Kookaburra bats range. This bat is elegantly personified. Handmade to perfection.

This awesome willow has a Mid Blade sweet spot with an estimated 215mm to 235 mm from the toe of the bat.

The edges are rounded with a thickness of 35 to 38mm. The profile of the face is curved or rounded. This is the most popular way a cricket bat face profile is made.

A round face can reduce the chance of damage to the edges and allow more rebound and ping to be kept in the middle of the bat for longer. The bat has a super spine. Players want bats to look as big as possible but have a light pickup.

The Spine then has to be as high as it can be. The spine of this bat can measure between 64 to 68 mm.

The curve of the bat is from the beginning of the handle to the end of the toe. It features a mid to high profile to suit Australian conditions. The spine of the bat goes all the way down the bat to extend the sweet spot. This ensures that the position of the hands is then placed ahead of the ball, which is essential for good stroke play by hitting the ball under the eyes.

The willow is naturally air-dried, and the process can be between 6 to 12 months. This process increase durability and performance as the willow will be at the correct moisture level to handle hard cricket balls. Each cleft of wood used to manufacture a Kahuna bat is different and unique.

Multiple processes go into the production of each single Kahuna Cricket bat. The willow is grade 1+ (the best of the best) and it consists mostly of 8-12 blemish-free straight grains near each other. The blade is unbleached. The bat has an oval-shaped handle. It gives the batsmen a direct feel through the shot and the hands don’t twist as much on impact from the ball on the blade. It helps in the development of a top-hand dominant technique. 

This is a bat for the dynamic stroke-making batsmen that play multiple cricket formats.

Kookaburra Kahuna Side profile
Kahuna from the side

A Scalloped PROFILE SHAPE: In a way to maximize spine height, taking out willow from either side of the spine allows the spine to peak, without dramatically increasing unnessacary weight to the bat. Scallops also maximize edge profile, reducing blade rotation in off-center hits. A well-scalloped bat made from high-quality willow is the hallmark of this Kookaburra bats.

A slight BOW: The regular bow found in the majority of modern Kookaburra bats which allows you to get your hands slightly ahead of the ball for ease of stroke play. It also helps the cricket bat feel more aggressive in your hands.

A Medium SPINE HEIGHT: Often combined with big edges to create a forgiving bat with an extra wide hitting zone which still rewards striking the blade out of the very middle.

A flatter FACE: Enhance the sweet spot on the blade and off-center strokes can also be timed to the boundary.

Big Edges: The Big edges make for a forgiving and powerful cricket bat with a wider sweet spot.

Mid to low SWEET SPOT POSITION: A 2-in-1setup that allows favorability to players who like to hit down the ground, but still want the benefits of a mid-sweet spot.

Semi- Oval HANDLE TYPE: A happy medium between a Round and Oval Handle that brings the benefits of both oval & round handles. This shape assists alignment and weakens the bottom hand for more controlled stroke play as your top hand is more dominant and still allows for creative use of the bottom hand.

-A semi-square TOE: The bat is fitted with a toe guard but might differ from bat supplier.

2. Ghost Pro Player Kookaburra bats

The middle of the bat is a bit lower than the Kahuna Cricket Bat. The best Grade 1+ unbleached English Willow with a middle bat profile. The toe shape is round with a natural standard round face profile.

Kookaburra Ghost top profile.
Ghost top profile
Kookaburra front or flat profile
Ghost face profile

 

Middle

Approximately 195mm to 215 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 35mm to 38mm

Edge Profile

Rounded

Face Profile

Rounded

Toe Profile

Standard(Rounded)

Spine Height

Approximately 64 mm to 68 mm

Scallop

Approximately 1 mm to 2mm

Bow

Approximately 10 mm to 14 mm

Handle

Oval

Grip

Players’ Grip

 

This is the most chosen way a cricket bat face profile is made. It is believed that a round face can reduce the chance of damage to the edges and allow more rebounds and ping to be kept in the middle of the bat for longer. 

Kookabura Ghost Bow explanation

The edges are rounded and approximately 35 mm to 38mm. The spine is almost 180mm from the toe and the height is approximately 64 mm to 68mm. The bow of the bat is approximately 10mm to14mm.

The scalloping of the back profile of the bat is about 1mm to 2mm.

You might also like CA bats

Kookaburra Ghost side profile
Ghost side profile

2023 Ghost Pro Player Kookaburra bats

-A scalloped PROFILE SHAPE: In a way to maximize spine height, taking out willow from either side of the spine allows the spine to peak, without dramatically increasing unnecessary weight to the bat. Scallops also maximize edge profile, reducing blade rotation in off-center hits. A well-scalloped bat made from high-quality willow is the hallmark of this cricket bat.

-A Slight BOW: this is a combination of the traditional and large bow which is the most common when making a cricket bat. You see the subcontinental shape in the bat with a more pronounced bow. This enables the sweet spot to be lower on the blade as well. It is advantageous for use on low pitches.

 -High SPINE HEIGHT with a concave spine profile: This profile ensures a lighter pickup and a well-balanced bat. This profile is combined with big edges to create a forgiving bat with an extra wide hitting zone which still rewards striking the blade out of the very middle.

Kookaburra bats- FACE profile: assists with better control of the bat, because of the flatter face.

 -Big EDGES: The Big edges make for a forgiving and powerful cricket bat with a wider sweet spot.

-A Mid to low SWEET SPOT POSITION: A two-in-one setup that allows some favorability to players who like to hit down the ground but still want the benefits of a mid-sweet spot. Do you rarely find yourself on high-bouncing wickets? A synthetic wicket specialist? Or thinking about a tour of the subcontinent? Well, this sweet spot setup could really help some of your shots. Blast a straight drive through the inner field and you’ll know what we mean.

-Semi- Oval HANDLE TYPE: A happy medium between a Round and Oval Handle that brings the benefits of both oval & round handles. This shape aids alignment and slightly weakens the bottom hand for more controlled stroke play as your top hand is more dominant and still allows for creative use of the bottom hand.

-A semi-square TOE

 The main reason for a Semi square toe is it help minimize damage from tapping at the crease and running between the wickets with your bat, as the toe is slightly offset.

3. Aura Pro Kookaburra bats

Developed for 2023 and from Kookaburra UK. A classical style Bat with an ultra-light weight pick up – ideal for aggressive 360-degree stroke play.

Kookaburra Aura Pro top profile
Aura top profile
Kookaburra Aura front profile
Aura front profile

Middle

Approximately 210mm to 230mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 38 mm to 40mm

Edge Profile

More flat

Face Profile

4.5mm Flat

Toe Profile

Semi Square

Spine Height

58mm-62mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Handle

Round

Grip

Pro lite Hex grip

The bat has an aggressive profile with a high spine.

The scalloping on both sides of the spine maximizes the edges. The blade is slightly shorter than other Kookaburra ranges – half an inch shorter and half an inch longer in the handle.

The bat feels fantastic in the hand, nicely cushioned by the grip. The bat is finished with a round toe, which gives a comfortable feel when setting up to face a delivery. Best overall bats with a great balance.

A High profile bat in the 23 range with the start of the edge and the spine about 250 millimetres up from the toe. The pickup of the bat helps players to achieve maximum bat speed

Kookaburra Aura Side profile
Aura Pro side profile

Aura Pro Kookaburra bats

-A duckbill PROFILE SHAPE: A Duckbill profile adds thickness to the toe yet aids pickup for a better-balanced bat. This is the bat profile preferred by many international players due to the balance and amount of wood left in the bat in the hitting zone. Perfect for front-foot players and on slow low English wickets. This bat is designed for big hitters and for clearing the ropes effortlessly.

-A Standard BOW: The Cricket Bow is the curve of the cricket bat from the tip of the handle to the end of the toe. The Cricket bow is based on the personal preference of you as a batsman. Some cricket players prefer cricket bats with a larger bow. When seen in profile, you’ll notice that there is a curve from the bottom of the handle through to the toe. This entire curve is referred to as the ‘bow’. The regular bow is found in the majority of modern cricket bats which gets your hands slightly ahead of the ball for ease of stroke play. It also helps the cricket bat feel more aggressive in your hands.

-A Medium SPINE HEIGHT: What is the spine of a cricket bat? Cricket Bat Spine is found on the back face of the cricket bat. The spine is the line that runs down the center of the cricket bat’s back starting from the handle running down to the toe.  A higher spine or a thicker swell depth represents more willow mass behind the sweet spot. Often combined with big edges to create a forgiving bat with an extra wide hitting zone which still rewards striking the blade out of the very middle of the bat.

-A Semi-Flat FACE: One of the latest trends in cricket bat faces was born from the need to add some durability to the edges of flat-faced bats. When prepared correctly semi-flat faces bring the benefits of slightly bigger edges, a wider sweet spot plus ‘point and shoot’ aiming of a flat face bat. A slight curve also allows batsmen to be confident when using the wrists to manipulate the face angle.

-Big EDGES: Big edges make for a forgiving and powerful cricket bat with a wider sweet spot.

-A Mid SWEET SPOT POSITION: Not too high or too low, the mid sweet spot position is the most popular setup among all cricket bats. You would be looking for a mid-sweet spot if you see yourself as a ‘complete’ batter. This means if you enjoy strokes on the front and back foot, you play on all types of wickets and you want the largest area for the sweet spot. This setup gives performance both straight and square of the wicket, while allowing players to be confident with an array of shots. This prime sweet spot position is also famous for what many refer to as a ‘balanced’ pickup.

-Semi-Oval HANDLE TYPE: A happy medium that brings the benefits of both oval & round handles. This shape aids alignment slightly weakens the bottom hand for more controlled stroke play and still allows for creative use of the bottom hand.

-Semi flat or square TOE: This bat needs some form of toe preparation via shoe goo, a toe guard or your favourite secret recipe.

4. Rapid Pro Kookaburra bats

This is a mid-profile bat with a sweet spot in the center that can help you play amazing cut shots and drives. This bat has relatively thicker edges and spines compared to Kookaburra Kahuna Pro Cricket Bat.

Kookaburra Rapid Pro top profile
Rapid top profile
Rapid flat profile

Middle

Approximately 215 mm to 235 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 37mm to 39 mm

Edge Profile

Semi Rounded

Face Profile

Semi Flat

Toe Profile

Semi Square

Spine Height

Approximately 63 mm to 65mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Enhanced Bow

Handle

Round

Grip

Pro-Lite grip

Kookaburra Aura Side profile

The bat is made with top-grade English willow having 8-12 straight grains. The bat has a light pick-up and weighs about 2lb 7oz to 2lb 8oz, which is ideal for players who like to use their wrists more while playing.

Kookaburra Rapid Pro bat has an oval-shaped handle which becomes thinner as you go from bottom to top. The handles are made from a unique Singapore cane which is excellent at shock absorption. The Quality and texture of the stickers are ideal, as expected from kookaburra’s original flagship bats.

The grains look dark on every bat. The bats also don’t have toe guards, and in the close-up, the clean face and the fantastic colour combination of this light willow can be seen easily. The bats have a lovely profile with rounded edges and semi-curve cambers. Bats have a ting of oil over the front face showing that they have a fresh cleft.

Kookaburra rapid pro bats show excellent ping with white and red balls. Their semi-curved cambers and lightweight help those who just want to make the ball out of the ground.

Handles of these bats are made to assist batters ultimately in making heavy shots. The bats weigh from two seven to two eight lbs. Weight-wise, these bats are the best and pick up very light.

These Kookaburra Rapid Pro Cricket Bat 2023 bats are just different in grains on them, and they all have great pings and the best light pickup.

 Rapid Pro Kookaburra bats

-A Small amount of scalloping that is forming the unique PROFILE SHAPE: A well scalloped bat made from high quality willow is the hallmark of this light cricket bat. Concaving profile at the back of the bat ensure the bat is lighter but still have big edges.

-An enhanced BOW: The bat is supported with an aggressive style bow made for attacking cricket on bouncing cricket pitches.

-Reasonable SPINE HEIGHT: The spine of this bat is high enough to ensure the edges are still prominent enough and a lot of wood behind the spine.

 -Semi Flat FACE: One of the latest trends in cricket bat faces was born from the need to add some durability to the edges of flat faced bats. When prepared correctly semi-flat faces bring the benefits of slightly bigger edges, a wider sweet spot plus ‘point and shoot’ aiming of a flat face bat. A slight curve also allows batsman to be confident when using the wrists to manipulate the face angle.

-Normal EDGES: The even normal edges are larger than the biggest edges of the 2000’s. Normal edges are often the calling card of a lightweight bat or a premium bat with a full profile.

-Mid to high SWEET SPOT POSITION:

This mid-to-high sweetspot will assist a batsman on a bouncy wicket to play all around the ground. It will assist you as a batsmen to play on the front and back foot.

-A round HANDLE TYPE: This handle type will assist the batter to move their hands around the handle to score all around the ground.

-A semi-square TOE: 

The main reason for a Semi square toe is it help minimize damage from tapping at the crease and running between the wickets with your bat, as the toe is slightly offset.

5. Beast Lite Kookaburra bats

Within the Beast range is the Beast Lite. I think this bat is excellent for perfecting your batting technique especially to play straight through the V. The Beast Lite has an inch taken off the blade consisting of Grade 4 English Willow and added to the handle.

Kookaburra Beast top profile
Beast Lite top profile
Kookaburra Beast Lite front profile
Beast Lite front profile

Middle

Approximately 215 mm to 235 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 32 mm to 35 mm

Edge Profile

Rounded

Face Profile

Rounded

Toe Profile

Semi Square to Taper (Flat straight)

Spine Height

Approximately 62 mm to 65 mm

Scallop

Approximately 2 mm to 3 mm

Bow

Approximately 11 mm to 12 mm

Handle

Oval -Pro Lite Counter Balance

Grip

Silicon Grip

Made out of Grade 4 English Willow cleft. The face of the bat has knots, butterfly stains or other natural deformities. 

This however don’t have any impact on the sweet spot of the bat. This bat I will recommend to any player that wants a good quality lighter bat.

This bat will be for a player that are transitioning from a Harrow size to a Short Handle size. The bat won’t be as heavy as normal Short handle bats.

The only difference between this bat and the more elite bats is that this bat is made of a lower-grade English Willow. The shorter blade with the longer handle allows the same length as a standard Cricket Bat Short Handle length.

The reduced weight entails that the bats can be supplied between 1,077-1,134 grams.

The handle has a counterbalance sitting at the top of the handle which creates an impressively light pick-up. It supports a pro-Lite Oval Handle with Silicon grip. The sweet spot is the same as the Beast Pro players at approximately 195mm to 215mm from the toe of the bat.

The edge thickness is smaller from 33 mm to 35 mm. A round edge profile and round face profile highlight this bat. The Spine height is approximately 62mm to 65mm. The back profile of the bat is scalloped with 2mm to 3 mm on the sides of the Spine. The toe profile is tapered.

 

Kookaburra Beast Lite side profile
Beast Lite Side profile

2023 Beast Lite Kookaburra bats

-A Small amount of scalloping that is forming the unique PROFILE SHAPE: A well scalloped bat made from high quality willow is the hallmark of this light cricket bat. Concaving profile at the back of the bat ensure the bat is lighter but still have big edges.

-An enhanced BOW: The bat is supported with an aggressive style bow made for attacking cricket on bouncing cricket pitches.

-Reasonable SPINE HEIGHT: The spine of this bat is high enough to ensure the edges are still prominent enough and a lot of wood behind the spine.

-Round FACE: The round face was more the traditional way bats were made, it assisted in reducing the weight of the bat and ensured that the edges don’t get damaged with a missed hit.

-Normal EDGES: The even normal edges are larger than the biggest edges of the 2000’s. Normal edges are often the calling card of a lightweight bat or a premium bat with a full profile.

-Mid to high SWEET SPOT POSITION: This mid to high sweet spot will assist a batsman on a bouncy wicket to play all around the ground. It will assist you as a batsman to play on the front and back foot.

-A Oval HANDLE TYPE: This handle type will assist the batter to move their hands around the handle to score all around the ground.

-A semi-square to flat TOE:  The main reason for a Semi square toe is it help minimize damage from tapping at the crease and running between the wickets with your bat, as the toe is slightly offset.A Square toe has been widely used by current international players as it enhances pickup and increases the sweet spot right down to the toe. It also gives the feeling of a bigger toe area due to there being less wastage in comparison to the round toe.The more serious players with play with totally flat toe that leaves all the wood at the toe of the bat to assist with a counter balance and assist with balancing of the bat.

6. Kookaburra Bubble Pro Cricket Bat

Back with a vengeance for 2023 is the Kookaburra Bubble Cricket Bat, made famous by England Cricket legend Graeme Thorpe, a throwback to the Nineties and Noughties!

Bubble top profile
Bubble Flat profile

‱ Middle

Approximately 210 mm to 240 mm from the toe

‱ Edge Thickness

Approximately 38 mm to 40 mm (Huge)

‱ Edge Profile

Rounded

‱ Face Profile

Rounded

‱ Toe Profile

Rounded

‱ Spine Height

Approximately 65 mm to 67 mm

‱ Scallop

Approximately 1 mm to 2 mm

‱ Bow

Approximately 10 mm to 12 mm

‱ Handle

Oval

‱ Grip

Hexa Grip

Like its previous generation’s bat, the Bubble
features a mid-power bulge giving the player maximum use of the sizeable, sweet spot. 

This bat is designed for a strong aggressive player that’s looking to hit the boundary frequently. 

The Mid Sweet spot assists the all-round player that can play strokes 360 degrees around the field. It will assist you as a back-foot and front-foot player. The extra weight will assist in hitting the ball long and hard. It also consists of an oval handle with a Hexa grip with a round toe profile. 

This is a beast of a bat. A Huge Bat Profile that was taken to the legal limit to maximize power hitting.

The sweet spot for the big hitter with 210 mm to 230mm from the toe end. The edges are approximately 38mm to 40 mm and are huge with a lot of wood behind it. A Rounded edge and tapered toe profile.

The Spine height is a bit higher at 66mm to 68mm. a Back profile has a scallop of approximately 1mm to 2mm with a bow between 10mm and 12 mm.

 

A Slightly scalloped PROFILE SHAPE:

This perdition has everything a batsman sitting at the top of the order needs. The bat has an aggressive profile with a high spine. The scalloping on both sides of the spine maximizes the edges. The bat feels fantastic in the hand, nicely cushioned by the grip. The counterbalance worked into the top of the handle adds to the light pick-up of the bat. The bat is finished with a square tapered toe, which gives a comfortable feel when setting up to face a delivery. Best overall bats with a great balance. The pickup of the bat helps players to achieve maximum bat speed. The handle consist out of a ‘Chevron’ grip and oval handle with a light in hand feel.

A Standard BOW: The regular bow is found in the majority of modern cricket bats which gets your hands slightly ahead of the ball for ease of stroke play. It also helps the cricket bat feel more aggressive in your hands.

A Medium SPINE HEIGHT: Often combined with big edges to create a forgiving bat with an extra wide hitting zone which still rewards striking the blade out of the very middle.

A Semi-Flat FACE: One of the latest trends in cricket bat faces was born from the need to add some durability to the edges of flat faced bats. When prepared correctly semi-flat faces bring the benefits of slightly bigger edges, a wider sweet spot plus ‘point and shoot’ aiming of a flat face bat. A slight curve also allows batsman to be confident when using the wrists to manipulate the face angle.

Big EDGES: Big edges make for a forgiving and powerful cricket bat with a wider sweet spot. Please be aware that junior bats can still have big edges but they will be relative to 40mm due to their size.

A Mid SWEET SPOT POSITION: Not too high or too low, the mid sweet spot position is the most popular setup among all cricket bats. This setup gives performance both straight and square of the wicket, while allowing players to be confident with an array of shots. This prime sweet spot position is also famous for what many refer to as a ‘balanced’ pickup.

Oval HANDLE TYPE:

The choice of many batsmen around the world. It is typically known to aid with control of the top hand, taking pressure off the bottom hand and helping batters play in the ‘V’. Provides a more direct feel through the shot and twists less on impact therefore less energy is lost. Assists in the development of a top-hand dominant technique.

Round TOE:

A Square toe has been widely used by current international players as it enhances pickup and increases the sweet spot right down to the toe. It also gives the feeling of a bigger toe area due to there being less wastage in comparison to the round toe.

7. KOOKABURRA TARON 1.1 CRICKET BAT

This is a new range to Kookaburra range. In my opinion, the Taron 1.1 has a breath of fresh air. This stylish cricket bat is perhaps a look into the future of Kookaburra offerings with updated branding and a new shape.

Middle

Approximately 195mm to 215mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 32mm to 33mm

Edge Profile

Curved

Face Profile

Semi square

Toe Profile

Rounded

Spine Height

Approximately 62 mm to 64 mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Distinct

Handle

Semi Oval in to round

Grip

Pro-Lite grip

This perdition has everything a batsman sitting at the top of the order needs. The bat has an aggressive profile with a high spine.

The scalloping on both sides of the spine maximizes the edges. The bat feels fantastic in the hand, nicely cushioned by the grip. The counterbalance worked into the top of the handle adds to the light pick-up of the bat.

The bat is finished with a square tapered toe, which gives a comfortable feel when setting up to face a delivery. Best overall bats with a great balance. The pickup of the bat helps players to achieve maximum bat speed.

The handle consists out of a ‘Chevron’ grip and oval handle with a light in hand feel.

Scalloped PROFILE SHAPE: In the quest to maximise spine height, gouging willow from either side of the spine allows it to peak without dramatically increasing weight. Scallops also maximise edge profile which reduces rotation of the blade in off-centre hits. A well scalloped bat made from high quality willow is the hallmark of a light cricket bat.

An Enhanced BOW: A very aggressive style bow made for attacking cricket & striking fear into bowlers. The extra leverage towards the toe can be an excellent tool on lower bouncing wickets.

A High SPINE HEIGHT: A high spine maximises the hitting power of the centre of the cricket bat.

A Semi-Flat FACE: One of the latest trends in cricket bat faces was born from the need to add some durability to the edges of flat faced bats. When prepared correctly semi-flat faces bring the benefits of slightly bigger edges, a wider sweet spot plus ‘point and shoot’ aiming of a flat face bat. A slight curve also allows batsman to be confident when using the wrists to manipulate the face angle.

A Low SWEET SPOT POSITION: Performs at its best when players hit through the ‘V’ with a straight bat. Often favoured by those who play at the top of the order or find themselves on lower bouncing wickets. Crush a drive with one of these and the bowlers will know they’re in for trouble.

Semi- Oval HANDLE TYPE: A happy medium that brings the benefits of both oval & round handles. This shape aids alignment, slightly weakens the bottom hand for more controlled stroke play and still allows for creative use of the bottom hand.

A semi-square TOE: GM bats have Toe Tek for toe protection. It is fitted with a toe guard.  The main reason for a Semi square toe is it help minimize damage from tapping at the crease and running between the wickets with your bat, as the toe is slightly offset.

 

8. KOOKABURRA VAPOR 3.1 CRICKET BAT

This bat is newly developed for 2023 with a classical style with a superb lightweight pick-up. Ideal for aggressive 360 degree style stroke play. It consists out of a Grade 3 English Willow Cleft.

Middle

Approximately 195mm to 215mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 33mm to 34mm

Edge Profile

Curved

Face Profile

Semi flat

Toe Profile

Semi Square

Spine Height

Approximately 60 mm to 62 mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Enhanced and Distinct

Handle

Semi-Oval

Grip

GM Tech grip

The most extensively used grade of blade which offers excellent value for money. A Grade 3 blade may have up to half the face in a tint/red wood color, but this does not affect playability.

This grade will have around 5 grains on the face that may not be that straight and there is likely to be some specks or butterfly marks on the grains on the face of the bat. Superior Grade 3 unbleached English willow.

Expect grain structure to have distortions, blemishes on the face & colour on one edge. A High quality 6-piece, treble spring Singapore cane handle gives feel and comfort to the bat. The traditional blade length allows for an enhanced long sweet spot and the traditional handle length gives extra control & consistent grip location.

The Mid blade power-zone assists with controlled all round power play. The Rounded face maximises hitting area reducing pressure on shoulders & splice. A minimal concaving profile creates a superb pickup while retaining substantial edge & spine size.  A bowed blade improves balance & pickup.

A duckbill PROFILE SHAPE: A duckbill profile adds thickness to the toe yet aids pickup for a better-balanced bat. This is the bat profile preferred by many international players due to the balance and amount of wood left in the bat in the hitting zone. Perfect for front-foot players and on slow low English wickets. This bat is designed for big hitters and for clearing the ropes effortlessly.

A Standard BOW: The Cricket Bow is the curve of the cricket bat from the tip of the handle to the end of the toe. The Cricket bow is based on the personal preference of you as a batsmen. Some cricket players prefer cricket bats with a larger bow. When seen in profile, you’ll notice that there is a curve from the bottom of the handle through to the toe. This entire curve is referred to as the ‘bow’. The regular bow is found in the majority of modern cricket bats which gets your hands slightly ahead of the ball for ease of stroke play. It also helps the cricket bat feel more aggressive in your hands.

A Medium SPINE HEIGHT: What is the spine of a cricket bat? Cricket Bat Spine is found on the back face of the cricket bat. The spine is the line that runs down the center of the cricket bat’s back starting from the handle running down to the toe.  A higher spine or a thicker swell depth represents more willow mass behind the sweet spot. Often combined with big edges to create a forgiving bat with an extra wide hitting zone which still rewards striking the blade out of the very middle of the bat.

A Semi-Flat FACE: One of the latest trends in cricket bat faces was born from the need to add some durability to the edges of flat-faced bats. When prepared correctly semi-flat faces bring the benefits of slightly bigger edges, a wider sweet spot plus ‘point and shoot’ aiming of a flat face bat. A slight curve also allows batsmen to be confident when using the wrists to manipulate the face angle.

Big EDGES: Big edges make for a forgiving and powerful cricket bat with a wider sweet spot.

A Mid SWEET SPOT POSITION: Not too high or too low, the mid sweet spot position is the most popular setup among all cricket bats. You would be looking for a mid-sweet spot if you see yourself as a ‘complete’ batter. This means if you enjoy strokes on the front and back foot, you play on all types of wickets and you want the largest area for the sweet spot. This setup gives performance both straight and square of the wicket, while allowing players to be confident with an array of shots. This prime sweet spot position is also famous for what many refer to as a ‘balanced’ pickup.

Semi-Oval HANDLE TYPE: A happy medium that brings the benefits of both oval & round handles. This shape aids alignment, slightly weakens the bottom hand for more controlled stroke play and still allows for creative use of the bottom hand.

Semi flat or square TOE: This bat needs some form of toe preparation via shoe goo, a toe guard or your favourite secret recipe.

9. EMPOWER PRO PLAYERS

Informed and designed with our women’s and junior athletes in mind, the Empower range is the newcomer to the Kookaburra collection.

Middle

Approximately 215 mm to 235 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 32 mm to 35 mm

Edge Profile

Rounded

Face Profile

Flat

Toe Profile

Rounded

Spine Height

Approximately 62 mm to 65 mm

Scallop

Approximately 2 mm to 3 mm

Bow

Approximately 11 mm to 12 mm

Handle

Oval Counter Balance

Grip

Silicon Grip

Made with a mid-high profile, the Empower Pro Players is built specifically for those who favour a lightweight bat and thinner handle.

Features a Zig Zag Grip, flat face profile and weight range from 2lbs 6oz – 2lbs 8.5oz. The bat profile consists of a flat face, reduced edges and mid to high profile.

The apex of the edge and spine around 200 millimetres up from the toe helps the balance of the bat move closer to the player’s hands and bat easier to swing.

Perfect for cricketers that are slightly smaller in stature with smaller hands, looking to deliver power at the crease. This was the premium bat of Alyssa Healy and Soppy Devine in the previous season.

This range will be really suitable for women. This range is in my opinion the correct range for ladies’ cricketers as female cricketers consider something between 2lb 4oz-2lb 7oz the ideal weight.

But they had to make some sacrifices in getting the weight that low without losing too much power. According to me, they reduce the width of the blade slightly and/or drop the shoulders of the blade to help with weight. Moving that wood behind where you’ll be hitting the ball. It can be difficult to find the perfect bat like this in stores. 

10. SHADOW PRO PLAYERS

An excellent budget cricket bat range, is the Kookaburra Shadow range. This bat has a powerful and aggressive profile which is aimed at players looking to dominate the middle by scoring runs quickly.

Middle

Approximately 215mm to 235 mm from the toe

Edge Thickness

Approximately 35mm to 38mm

Edge Profile

Rounded

Face Profile

Curved

Toe Profile

Square

Spine Height

Approximately 64 mm to 68 mm

Scallop

Approximately 1mm to 2mm

Bow

Approximately 11mm to 12 mm

Handle

Oval

Grip

Grid Grip

The bat profile is very similar to the famous Kahuna range. It has big edges and a high spine, however overall it is a slightly thinner bat. 

The spine tapers off towards the toe which distributes the weight well. The bat is fairly light, weighing around 2 lbs 8oz. Grade 3 to 5 English cleft is used to make this bat. I definitely think it could pass for a higher grade. The bat has a mid-sweet spot which is great for all-round-stroke play.

The bat is finished with a square tapered toe, which gives the impression there is a lot of wood behind each shot.

 Marcus Harris will be playing with the Shadow this season. The perfect balance of power, performance, price and prestige, this full player’s shape offers competitive, well-balanced power and from the best Grade 2 willow. You will get this awesome bat at superb value. The bat profile of the Shadow is similar to the Kahuna with just a lower-grade willow.

HISTORY OF KOOKABURRA

There is a stick of wood that the game of cricket couldn’t be played without.

You can use different balls or use a box as stumps. But you can’t sacrifice the quality of your blade of the bat.

The Kookaburra Head office is in Moorabbin, Victoria Australia. Most Kookaburra Cricket Bats are made in India Meerut Uttar Pradesh since 1987. The high labour costs and importations of raw materials make it cheaper to manufacture the bats there. SG is manufacturing Kookaburra bats under the license of Kookaburra.

Each range of Kookaburra has a variety of different bats crafted in different grades of willow, which implies a wide range of price points. It’s fair to say that Kookaburra has created something to suit everyone. Kookaburra bats are handmade.

The most popular Kookaburra cricket Bat is the Kahuna Bat. Most international cricket players play with the Kahuna bat. As it is an Australian brand most Australian cricketers play with Kookaburra cricket bats.

The willow is air-dried for 6 to 12 months after harvesting before it is used in the bat-making process. This is used to remove excess moisture from the willow. The handle of the bat is made of a 12-piece Sarawack cane. The edges of the bats are square, and the bat is lightweight although having a huge profile. The pick-up ratio is commendable in the Kookaburra range. The position in the blade where the performance or sweet spot is maximized. The size of the sweet spot on Kookaburra bats is longer. This allows the middle of the bat to be spread further across the blade by ensuring that off-center strikes also be timed with precision.

Did you know that Kookaburra and SS are some of the top brands producing bats in my opinion? Most Pro Indian players play with the SS brand and most Australian pro players play with Kookaburra. Every player with different playing styles is looking for the perfect spine shape and back profile of a bat.

Players that played with Kookaburra:

From the United Kingdom: Josh Butler, Natalie Schiver, Sophie Eccelstone, Sam Evans, Eddie Byrom, Harry Swindells, Robbie White and Rob Keogh.
From Australia (Just to name a few): Adam Zampa, Alyssa Healy, Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Dan Christian, Daniel Hughes, Glenn Maxwell, Jake Doran, James Pattinson, Marcus Harris, Josh Philippe, Marnus Labaschagne, Megan Schutt, Mitchell Starc, Tim Payne and Nathan Lyon.

International players: Martin Guptill, Sophy Devine, Dean Elgar, Jimmy Neesham, Chris Morris, Janneman Malan, Arnich Nortje, Katie Perkins, Sophy Devine, Tom Blundell and Tom Latham.

Kookaburra Legends: Ricky Ponting, AB De Villiers, Adam Gilchrist, Alec Stewart, Alan Lamb, Aravinda De Silva, Brad Haddin, Damien Martyn, Darren Lehmann, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Dean Jones, Ian Healy, Jack Russel,  Philip Hughes and Sir Gordon Greenidge.

The Company was founded in 1890 by A.G. Thompson. It is a unique family-owned business.

What equipment did the company make at first? Harnesses and saddles

Why Did Alfred Thompson turn to manufacture cricket balls?

His livelihood was threatened by a car accident.

In the 1980s the company started manufacturing cricket bats, protective equipment, clothing and footwear on a big scale.

They are a big manufacturer of Hockey balls and Hockey sticks as well. The Kookaburra Dimple Elite hockey ball has been in all Olympic Games since 1984. They have offices and distributors in New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh, India and the UK.  This minimizes the price of Kookaburra bats. An Average Kookaburra bat will cost you 300 pounds.

Previous cricket ranges were Diablo, Ridgeback, Genesis, Blade, Sword, Blaze, Surge, Ice, XLR8 and CCX.

Current ranges are Kahuna, Ghost, Patriot, Beast and Shadow.

Kookaburra Bats

INTERNATIONAL KOOKABURRA CRICKET PLAYERS

Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting was sponsored by Kookaburra from 1988 to 2012. Incredibly he was sponsored by Kookaburra from age 14 to age 38.

He first played with the “Bubble” and “Ridgeback”. But he made the Kahuna bat his own for the majority of his career. He captained the Australian team in their “golden era”, between 2004 and 2011. In December 2006 he achieved the highest test rating as a test batsman in 50 years. He won the Ashes a second time 5-0 as captain. The 2003 and 2007 Cricket world cup was won by Australia with him at the helm. As captain, he had 48 victories out of 77 tests between 2004 and 2010. He is the only player to be involved in 100 test victories in his cricket career as well as the most victories as a player in one-day internationals with 262 wins. He played over 160 tests and 370 one-day internationals in his career having only a Kookaburra in his hand. He was voted Cricketer of the 2000 decade and was named to the ICC Hall of fame in 2018.

He played awesome pull and cover drives with his Kahuna bat. His quick hands were using his Kahuna like a magic wand.

Ricky Ponting Career Batting Statistics

Other bats in the Kahuna range.

Ricky Ponting was the Kahuna Brand Ambassador. This is the banker range in the Kookaburra range.

Kahuna pro 1.0 (Short Handle and Long Blade)

The only difference is that the English willow is 2nd-grade unbleached and makes the bat a bit cheaper but still value for money. The Swell position is 200 mm from the toe.

Big Kahuna

The great thing about the Kahuna range is that Kookaburra has developed unique bats. In particular, the Big Kahuna has an absolutely huge profile. This bat is designed for a strong aggressive player that’s looking to hit the boundary frequently. It also consists of an oval handle with a Vertex grip with a round toe profile. This is a beast of a bat. Weight range 2’10-3’0. Still featuring a mid-spot sweet spot. The bat is produced with Grade 4 English Willow. Available in SH only.

Grade 4 Cleft consist normally of light and dark colors. In other words, it has a Butterfly stain. It will still play as well as the other grades. The stain actually adds strength through the willow. This can assist with the durability of the bat. Any number of grains are possible with often only 4 grains.

The Mid Sweet spot assists the all-round player that can play strokes 360 degrees around the field. It will assist you as a back-foot and front-foot player. The extra weight will assist in hitting the ball long and hard. 

Kahuna lite

For young youth cricketers that want to play with a Short Handle, this is the option where the bat has still big edges but is a lighter option. Still featuring a mid-spot sweet spot. The bat consists of the Kookaburra Lite handle. It has the shortest blade in the Kahuna range. Consist out of Grade 4 and 5 unbleached English Willow. These bats are good value for your money, especially for starting youth cricket players. These bats may have slightly irregular grain patterns and are less responsive than higher-grade English Willow bats. The blade is thus shorter with a longer handle. Mid to high bat profile with a standard round toe profile. The weight range is between 2lbs7oz-2lbs10oz.

https://youtu.be/5r_zmt2CuvY

Kahuna Pro 3.0 Senior Cricket Bat (English Willow)

The bat comes with a Short handle and Long Blade. The bat has a Verdigris design and the weight is between 2lbs7oz-2lbs10oz. Still a light bat with the same characteristics as the other Kahuna bats. The same weight almost as the Kahuna light with a standard blade and handle size. An oval handle with Vertex grip.

Kahuna Pro 3.0 Junior Cricket Bat (English Willow)

Size 5 to Small Adult available.

Kahuna Pro 5.0 Senior Bat (English Willow)

Consists of a Grade 6 English willow with the same characteristics as the other Kahuna bats, with only the grade making the bat less expensive. Sizes available Short Handle and Long blade. Grade 6 willow is still strong bat has a lot of stain on the wood and blade and won’t look that nice to the eye, but will still give you a good ping of the bat. Available in Short handle and Long blade.

Kahuna Pro Junior Bat (English Willow)

Size 3 to Small Adults available. The price is affordable for the start of hardball junior cricketers.

Kahuna Pro 9.0 KW (Kashmir Willow) and Kahuna Pro 9.0 Junior (Size 1-6)

Grade 3 Kashmir Willow

This is a cheaper Kashmir willow for indoor cricket and a beginner cricketer. A Cheaper option to start off with your cricket. Huge edges are still the order of the day. Remember Kashmir Willow is a harder wood and that normally has the effect of the ping of the bat. Kashmir Willow don’t need to be knocked in. The bat comes with a Vertex grip with a round traditional toe shape and a weight range of 2lbs7oz – 2lbs10oz. Still support a full spine and the characteristics of the Kahuna range.

https://youtu.be/NmxkGtzs7-8

Kookaburra Bats

Josh Butler

Born: September 8, 1990, Taunton, Somerset 
Major Teams: England, England Under-19s, Melbourne Renegades, Mumbai Indians

Batting Style: Right-Hand Bat
Fielding Position: Wicketkeeper

Softly-spoken calm and unfazed, with supple hands and a great eye. There you have Josh Buttler. He destroys opposing bowling attacks with sheer elegance and class. With a slog sweep over extra cover for six. He is an extraordinary batsman that can invent a shot while actually batting in an international match. England has had many players down the ages who have gained world acclaim, but Josh Buttler can claim to be their first global Twenty20 superstar. Buttler has helped bring England's limited-overs batting into the 21st century. His impact on the one-day and T20 sides has been extraordinary and, as of early 2016, he had England's three fastest one-day hundreds to his name. He had a thrilling innings against New Zealand (Edgbaston) and Sri Lanka (Lord's). Topping the list is a 46-ball onslaught against Pakistan in Dubai. As an illustration of his transformation of English cricket, when it comes to the fastest one-day century, no other England batsman ranks in the top 40.

Alyssa Healy classic cover drive.

Alyssa Healy

Born: March 24, 1990, Gold Coast, Queensland
Major Teams: Australia Under-23s Women, Australia Women, New South Wales Under-19s Women, Sydney Sixers Women
Playing Role: Wicketkeeper Batsman
Batting Style: Right-Hand Batsman
Fielding Position: Wicketkeeper

The legendary Wicket Keeper batsman is her uncle. He also played with Kookaburra. She made her debut at 19 years of age and open the batting in limited-overs cricket. She is also currently batting with A Kahuna

Alyssa Healy Players Replica Bat

Suited to players who like to control the flow of the game, Alyssa Healy’s Kahuna comes ready for all formats of the game. It has a lite oval handle of Kookaburra and Chevron Grip. Also made of the finest +1 Players Grade English Willow. It differs from the Butler player edition as the toe has a square and tapered profile.

The square toe is widely used by international players as it increases the pickup and lengthens the sweet spot to the edge of the toe. The square edges might crack easily and the bat will need maintenance. The Lite Oval handle is light to suit batting style of Alyssa. A Chevron grip covers the grip to give additional grip and comfort. The weight range is on the light side as it is made specifically for women. It is 2lbs 7.5oz-2lbs 8oz. The full spine profile is complimented by maximum edges.

Alyssa Healy Career Batting Statistics still in progress

Marnus Labaschagne

(Brand Ambassador of Kookaburra Ghost)

Marnus Labaschagne was born on 22 June 1994 in Klerksdorp South Africa

Marnus moved to Australia when he was 10 as his father relocate to Australia. Having grown up speaking Afrikaans. It was a challenge and tough at first at his new school to become fluent in English. He fell in love with cricket at a young age and his development started from a young age in Klerksdorp. He played for all the under-age teams for Queensland and captained their under-19 team. Labuschagne first came to prominence in 2014-15 when he made his debut for Queensland, but more famously fielded as a substitute fielder in the Ashes Test squad and when Steve Smith was concussed during the Lord’s Test 2019

Marnus Labaschagne Career Batting Statistics as per 2022

As of December 2022 he is the number 1 ranked Test Cricket Batsmen in the world.

Labuschagne was the next in line to make history as the first concussion substitution in a Test match. Under intense pressure and facing frightening fast bowling Labuschagne scored a match-saving 59 and knocked off 3 more half-centuries on the bounce over the series to be the main support act for Steve Smith. For the remainder of the series, he averaged more than 50 with the bat and was a major factor in Australia’s retention of the Ashes. He is currently only picked for the Australia test side and is ranking in the top 3 Test rankings currently.

There is none more technically orientated than Marnus Labuschagne and this shines through in the precise nature of his batting makeup. He once step on his bat handle where the bat was lying over the boundary rope to bend the handle of the bat to assist with stroke making

Other Bats in the Ghost range.

Ghost Pro 1.0 (Short Handle and Long Blade)

The main difference is only the Grade of the willow is a Grade 2. This reduces the price of the bat. The other features are generic to the Ghost range.

Ghost Lite

Within the Ghost range is the Ghost Lite, which is currently one of the lightest adult cricket bats on the market. I think this bat is excellent for perfecting your batting technique or as a backup for your best bat. The Ghost Lite has an inch taken off the blade and added to the handle. The shorter blade with the longer handle allows the same length as a standard Cricket Bat Short Handle length. The reduced weight entails that the bats can be supplied between 2lb 6oz and 2lb 8oz. The handle has a counterbalance sitting at the top of the handle which creates an impressively light pick-up. It supports a pro-Lite Oval Handle. The sweet spot is the same as the Ghost Pro players at approximately 195mm to 215mm from the toe of the bat. The edge thickness is smaller from 33 mm to 35 mm. A round edge profile and round face profile highlight this bat. The Spine height is approximately 62mm to 65mm. The back profile of the bat is scalloped with 2mm to 3 mm on the sides of the Spine. The toe profile is standard.

Ghost Pro 4.0

Between 4 and 5 Grade willow bat. The bat still has all the Ghost specification but are a cheaper option as the willow is of lower quality.

 Big Ghost

A Huge Bat Profile that was taken to the legal limit to maximize power hitting. The sweet spot for the big hitter with 210 mm to 230mm from the toe end. The edges are approximately 38mm to 40 mm and are huge with a lot of wood behind it. A Rounded edge and tapered toe profile. The Spine height is a bit higher at 66mm to 68mm. a Back profile has a scallop of approximately 1mm to 2mm with a bow between 11mm and 12 mm. The handle has a counterbalance to assist with the pick-up and balance of the bat. A lower-quality grade 4 unbleached willow will still give you a ping of the bat. The bat might consist of a butterfly stain on the face and back of the bat.

Ghost Pro 8.0 (Kashmir Willow)

The senior Ghost 8.0 is produced in a full players shape with a mid-profile to suit all conditions. Features a Hexa grip, traditional toe shaping and weight range from 2lbs 8oz – 2lbs 10oz.
The cricketing lover and players who like to play all around the wicket. Mid profile, a standard face and rounded toe. Suits all formats with the apex of the edge and the spine approximately 180 millimetres from the toe. Grade 2 Unbleached Kashmir Willow with a mid-profile and traditional round toe profile. The Standard face profile with a clean blade. A Hexa grip with a weight between 2lbs8oz-2lbs10oz

Glen Maxwell

(Kookaburra Beast Brand ambassador)

Born: October 14, 1988, Kew, Melbourne, Victoria
Major Teams: Australia, Delhi Daredevils, Fitzroy-Doncaster, Hampshire, Kings XI Punjab, Lancashire, Melbourne Renegades, Melbourne Stars, Mumbai Indians, Victoria, Yorkshire
Playing Role: Batting All-rounder
Batting Style: Right-Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Off break

https://youtu.be/qXmorFmQP_s

 

One of the fastest scorers in world cricket with a high strike rate. Glenn Maxwell has become a key man in Australia’s middle order in the shorter formats. It is not just his power that worries opposing bowlers and captains. His ability to make unconventional shots comes naturally. Scoops, reverse sweeps and pull shots makes it hard to set fields to cover all of his scoring areas. His confidence comes with risk, but he can change a game in a blink of an eye. He is a handy off-spinner and an outstanding fielder. He offers an impressive package in one-day and Twenty20 cricket. With his talent and exceptional eye, he has not performed yet at the high standards that he can achieve.

Glen Maxwell in 2023

He made his name for Victoria with a 19-ball half-century against Tasmania in 2010-11. That was the fastest fifty in Australia’s one-day domestic history and he has transferred that talent to the international stage. At the 2015 World Cup, he blasted a 51-ball century against Sri Lanka at the SCG, the fastest for Australia in ODIs and the second quickest in World Cup history.

The Beast range.

Beast Pro Players Cricket Bat

This new Beast range which is part of the Kookaburra range brings freshness with its excellent graphics. The main difference in this range is that the blade has a lower Sweet spot. It will assists batsmen to play through the V. Straight bat shots will be complimented with this bat. A regular bow force your hands to be slightly ahead of the ball for ease of stroke play. The edges are almost 40 mm and ensure that this is a powerful bat with a wider sweet spot. The spine height isn’t maxed out but is of medium height with a wide hitting zone. The Back profile of the bat is slightly scalloped. This help or assists in making the bat lighter, but still enhances the Sweet spot and remains with big edges. The face is the wonder of both worlds with a semi-flat face. This adds durability to the edges of flat-faced bats. It brings the benefit of slightly bigger edges and a bigger sweet spot. With a slight curve, it assists batsmen to manipulate the ball on the face of the bat with their wrists. The handle type is a traditional oval shape and will assist a batter with a dominant top hand to play straighter through his or her stroke play with additional control. This type of handle has the benefit of less twisting of the hands with ball contact with the bat.

Beast Pro 2.0

Same characteristics with lower Grade 3 English Willow. This gives you the same features with just a cheaper option or price.

Beast Pro 4.0

Same characteristics with lower Grade 4 English Willow. This gives you the same features with just a cheaper option or price.

Beast Pro 6.0 (Long Blade and Short Handle) Grade 6 Willow

Beast Pro 6.0 Junior Grade 6 Willow (Size 3 available.)

Big Beast

The only difference between this big range is again a lower Sweet spot that will assist with straight bat shots to clear the boundary. A Huge Bat Profile that was taken to the legal limit to maximize power hitting. The sweet spot for the big hitter with 215 mm to 235mm from the toe end. The edges are approximately 38mm to 40 mm and are huge with a lot of wood behind it. A Rounded edge and tapered toe profile. The Spine height is a bit higher at 66mm to 68mm. a Back profile has a scallop of approximately 1mm to 2mm with a bow between 11mm and 12 mm. The handle has a counterbalance to assist with the pick-up and balance of the bat. A lower-quality grade 4 unbleached willow will still give you a ping of the bat. The bat might consist a butterfly stain on the face and back of the bat. The weight is the same as the other Big range Bats. 2lb10oz

Beast Lite

Within the Beast range is the Beast Lite. I think this bat is excellent for perfecting your batting technique especially to play straight through the V. The Beast Lite has an inch taken off the blade consisting of Grade 4 English Willow and added to the handle. The shorter blade with the longer handle allows the same length as a standard Cricket Bat Short Handle length. The reduced weight entails that the bats can be supplied between 2lb 6oz and 2lb 8oz. The handle has a counterbalance sitting at the top of the handle which creates an impressively light pick-up. It supports a pro-Lite Oval Handle with Silicon grip. The sweet spot is the same as the Beast Pro players at approximately 195mm to 215mm from the toe of the bat. The edge thickness is smaller from 33 mm to 35 mm. A round edge profile and round face profile highlight this bat. The Spine height is approximately 62mm to 65mm. The back profile of the bat is scalloped with 2mm to 3 mm on the sides of the Spine. The toe profile is tapered

The Empower Range

Informed and designed with our women’s and junior athletes in mind, the Empower range is the newcomer to the Kookaburra collection. Made with a mid-high profile, the Empower Pro Players is built specifically for those who favor a lightweight bat and thinner handle. Features a Zig Zag Grip, flat face profile and weight range from 2lbs 6oz – 2lbs 8.5oz.

The bat profile consists of a flat face, reduced edges and mid to high profile. The apex of the edge and spine around 200 millimetres up from the toe helps the balance of the bat move closer to the player’s hands and bat easier to swing. Perfect for cricketers that are slightly smaller in stature with smaller hands, looking to deliver power at the crease. This was the premium bat of Alyssa Healy and Soppy Devine in the previous season. This range will be really suitable for women. This range is in my opinion the correct range for ladies cricketers as female cricketers consider something between 2lb 4oz-2lb 7oz the ideal weight. But they had to make some sacrifices in getting the weight that low without losing too much power.

According to me, they reduce the width of the blade slightly and/or drop the shoulders of the blade to help with weight. Moving that wood behind where you’ll be hitting the ball. It can be difficult to find the perfect bat like this in stores. 

Empower Pro players

Empower Pro 3.0

Empower Pro 5.0

Empower Pro 7.0

Empower Pro 9.0

The Shadow Range

I think an excellent budget cricket bat is the Kookaburra Shadow range. This bat has a powerful and aggressive profile which is aimed at players looking to dominate the middle by scoring runs quickly. The bat profile is very similar to the famous Kahuna range. It has big edges and a high spine, however overall it is a slightly thinner bat. The spine tapers off towards the toe which distributes the weight well. The bat is fairly light, weighing around 2 lbs 8oz. Grade 5 English cleft is used to make this bat. I definitely think it could pass for a higher grade. The bat has a mid-sweet spot which is great for all-round-stroke play. The bat is finished with a square tapered toe, which gives the impression there is a lot of wood behind each shot. Marcus Harris will be playing with the Shadow this season.

Kookaburra Shadow Pro Players

 The perfect balance of power, performance, price and prestige, this full player’s shape offers competitive, well-balanced power and from the best Grade 2 willow. You will get this awesome bat at superb value. The bat profile of the Shadow is similar to the Kahuna with just a lower-grade willow.

Shadow Pro 2.0

Grade 3 English Willow

Shadow Pro 4.0

Shadow Pro 7.1

The Concept Range

Concept 22 pro range has a breath of fresh air. This stylish cricket bat is perhaps a look into the future of Kookaburra offerings with updated branding and a new shape. This pro edition has everything a batsman sitting at the top of the order needs. The bat has an aggressive profile with a high spine. The scalloping on both sides of the spine maximizes the edges. The blade is slightly shorter than other Kookaburra ranges – half an inch shorter and half an inch longer in the handle. The bat weighs between 2lbs8oz and 2lbs10. The bat feels fantastic in the hand, nicely cushioned by the grip. The counterbalance worked into the top of the handle adds to the light pick-up of the bat. The bat is finished with a square tapered toe, which gives a comfortable feel when setting up to face a delivery. Best overall bats with a great balance. Highest profile bat in the 22/23 range with the start of the edge and the spine about 250 millimetres up from the toe. The pickup of the bat helps players to achieve maximum bat speed.

Concept 22 Pro 1.0 Senior Cricket Bat.

Concept 22 Pro 3.0 Senior Cricket Bat.

Concept 22 Pro 6.0 Senior Cricket Bat.

Concept 22 Pro 6.0 Junior Cricket Bat.

FAQs

Kookaburra have an English Willow and Kashmir Willow bat range.

For eample you get the Kahuna range that is made of English willow and also Kashmir willow. The profile of the bat is the same bat only the cleft of the wood is diffrent.

English willow that is focused more on hard ball Cricket. These bats are more expensive and more for your batsmen that are going to play cricket matches with a hardball. The wood of English willow is softer.

They also have bats that are made from Kashmir Willow that are more suitable for indoor cricket and softball “tennis” Cricket. I will suggest beginners start with bats that are made with Kashmir willow as the bats are more affordable.

Kookaburra’s big edge profile increases from the shoulders and maximizes at the swell position of the bat, generating supreme balance with an extended sweet spot that covers the entire width of the blade.

Kookaburra’s profiles adopt traditional shaping characteristics and operate together with the edge profile of the bat. 

Kookaburra have different bat ranges: Kahuna, Ghost, Patriot, Beast, Empower and Shadow range. The different ranges cater for different type of batsman. The empower range are well suited for Women for example.

Kookaburra Legends: Ricky Ponting, AB De Villiers, Adam Gilchrist, Alec Stewart, Alan Lamb, Aravinda De Silva, Brad Haddin, Damien Martyn, Darren Lehmann, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Dean Jones, Ian Healy, Jack Russel,  Philip Hughes and Sir Gordon Greenidge.

Josh Butler, Marnus Labuschagne, Glen Maxwell, Alyssa Healy and Sophy Devine.

From the United Kingdom: Josh Butler, Natalie Schiver, Sophie Ecclestone, Sam Evans, Eddie Byrom, Harry Swindells, Robbie White and Rob Keogh.
From Australia (Just to name a few): Adam Zampa, Alyssa Healy, Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Dan Christian, Daniel Hughes, Glenn Maxwell, Jake Doran, James Pattinson, Marcus Harris, Josh Philippe, Marnus Labuschagne, Megan Schutt, Mitchell Starc, Tim Payne and Nathan Lyon.

International players: Martin Guptill, Sophy Devine, Dean Elgar, Jimmy Neesham, Chris Morris, Janneman Malan, Arnich Nortje, Katie Perkins, Sophy Devine, Tom Blundell and Tom Latham.

Kookaburra Sport are an Australian Family-Owned Business operating for over 130 years. Fourth and fifth generation members of the founding Thompson family continue to work at the Head Office, at their new premises 218 Chesterville Road, Moorabbin. The manufacturing base are also located here.  Kookaburra are specializing in the production of sport equipment for both cricket and hockey.

According to my knowledge, most of Kookaburra’s bats are made in India by SG, as the cost of the process is more affordable there. 

But some production processes still occur in Australia. The Kookaburra Cricket balls are manufactured in Australia.

Both brands are over 100 years old and have great reputation.

Each range of Kookaburra has a variety of different bats crafted in different grades of willow, which implies a wide range of price points. It’s fair to say that Kookaburra has created something to suit everyone. Kookaburra bats are handmade.

The edges of the bats are square, and the bat is lightweight although having a huge profile. The pick-up ratio is commendable in the Kookaburra range. The position in the blade where the performance or sweet spot is maximized.

 Kookaburra in general have more concaving in their bats than GM and feels lighter.

However, all Kookaburra gear are made by SG, in India. Kookaburra outsourced their manufacturing to SG almost a decade ago (Kookaburra only makes cricket balls in Australia).

GM manufacture their bats still in England.

An entry level Kookaburra English Willow bat will cost an estimated $100.  The grade of willow will be between 3 and 6 then. 

A pro Player bat can vary from $500 to $900. Then you will get A+ grade willow. 

Kookaburra bats cleft are air dried for 6 to 12 months and then pressed. Preparation is done, but you as a player first will need to oil the bat first. (Don’t over oil your bat.) Leave the bat to dry for 24 hours.

After you have oiled the bat, you can start knock the bat in. Remember to also knock in the edges well enough.

 

The most popular Kookaburra cricket Bat is the Kahuna Bat. Most international cricket players play with the Kahuna bat. As it is an Australian brand most Australian cricketers play with Kookaburra cricket bats.

Conclusion

Kookaburra has a bat for each player and every condition.  Whether you are a back-foot or front-foot player. They have the bat for you. Kookaburra has also agents in a few continents and countries. The Heavy bat and extra light bat is a good initiatives and can be used for a specific format. They also have a range that is women-friendly. Just remember that they have a Uk Kookaburra website and an Australian website and the bats’ names are different from each other. That can be a bit confusing. But the ranges are the same.

Return policyWarranty and Guarantees

The different Brand suppliers have different return policies. Normally there is no warranty or guarantee on cricket bats. The reason is the nature of the game called Cricket.

Some companies and online suppliers can have their own rules regarding the first week of purchase. The return of the product might be possible if you are not satisfied with the bat or product and the product is still in sellable condition. That will depend on the specific store and supplier.

There can be mishaps with the online shopping experience is great in terms of range, price and delivery.

 I bought an item from your website. But this is not what I want. Can I give it back?

Yes, you can. However, there might be limitations to accepting back-sold goods. The date of delivery and the date of return should not be more than 7 days apart.

 Returned items need to be in an unused state along with all the product tags and labels intact.

  • What do I do? I received a broken/damaged item.

Cricket Equipment suppliers will have their own procedures they would follow.

I would suggest making sure that you check the return policy and procedures before you buy a Cricket Item online.

Disclaimer: This article is only my opinion on the specific bat Brand. I can’t be held responsible for the wrong bats purchased.

Table of Contents

References

IPL 2023: Glenn Maxwell will be FIT before tournament next year, says Royal Challengers Bangalore director of cricket Mike Hesson | Cricket News | Zee News (india.com), www.sportskeeda.com, bestcricketstore.com and www.cricketershop.com, Facebook for pictures, ESPN Cricket info and free Wikipedia encyclopaedia. All Rounder Cricket – Cricket Equipment and Cricket Bats Store, facebook.com for pictures, https://photos.google.com/,https://www.espncricinfo.com, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page, Amazon.com. Online Shopping site in India: Shop Online for Mobiles, Books, Watches, Shoes and More – Amazon.in,https://issuu.com/gccricketcentre/docs/gccc_2022-23_catalogue, www.kookaburrasport.com and Facebook of International Cricket players profiles for pictures.

Rate these Cricket Bats >