To help you find the right bat for your style, weight preference, and budget, we’ve tested and ranked the best bats for the 2024 season. These include popular brands like Gunn & Moore, DSC, Kookaburra, and Gray-Nicolls.
Below, you will find great budget bats, our top picks from big brands, a unique bat that impressed Alex Tudor, and a fantastic TON bat at the top of our list.
Table of Contents
DKP ICON – Best Cricket Bat Overall for 2024
The DKP ICON has been named the best cricket bat of 2024. Testers at Reed’s School all smiled after trying it out.
Huw Turbervill, The Cricketer editor, praised the bat, saying: “The thick edges initially seemed off-putting, but it played like a dream, much like a Lamborghini, with an amazing middle.”
Every tester had the DKP ICON at the top of their list, likely due to its boutique brand status.
Ex-England fast bowler Alex Tudor summed it up perfectly: “Looks nice, plays better.”
TON NEMESIS III – Best Big Brand Bat of 2024 and Close Runner-Up
The TON Nemesis III, described as ‘very similar to the DKP’, was also highly popular. Though not the cheapest (for a budget option, check out the TON Gladiator), the Nemesis III impressed everyone.
Huw Turbervill enjoyed it, saying: “I’d back myself to score quickly with this bat. Lovely.”
Nick Friend added: “Really nice. Good bat. Enjoyed it.”
KOOKABURRA STEALTH 5.1 – Best Value Bat of 2024
The Kookaburra Stealth 5.1 stood out as the best-value bat. Priced at £200, it is the most affordable among the top five and is relatively lightweight at 2lb 9oz with a 35mm edge.
Alex Tudor appreciated its good weight and balance, noting that it inspired confidence without the need to overhit deliveries.
Best Lightweight Bat of 2024: KOOKABURRA GHOST 3.1
The Kookaburra Ghost is a reliable, lightweight bat weighing 2lb 7oz. Priced at £300, it’s more expensive than the Stealth model. Alex Tudor praised it as a “good trustworthy bat” and mentioned it would improve with use. Young testers from Reed’s School enjoyed its feel and performance.
Best Gray-Nicolls Bat of 2024: GRAY-NICOLLS SHOCKWAVE GEN 2.3 4 STAR
Gray-Nicolls maintains its reputation with the Shockwave. It features a striking design with lime stickers and performs well, particularly in pick-up and middle-weight. Huw Turbervill initially preferred the traditional Powerspot but was impressed by the Shockwave’s performance.
Best GM Bat of 2024: GUNN & MOORE DIAMOND DXM 909
The Gunn & Moore Diamond 909, weighing 2lb 9oz, is the top GM bat for 2024, favored by Ben Stokes. It’s in the higher price range but delivers excellent performance. Huw Turbervill noted its impressive play and praised GM’s consistent quality.
Best Budget Bat of 2024: TON GLADIATOR IV
The TON Gladiator IV offers great value for those on a budget. It scored well in pick-up, build quality, and performance, with an average score of 7.8. Testers from Reed’s School appreciated its lightweight feel and low middle, making it a popular choice.
Best Heavyweight Bat of 2024: NEWBERY NAVARONE 5-STAR
The Newbery Navarone is the heaviest bat tested but still manageable. Testers liked its grip and hitting power. Nick Friend highlighted the consistent quality of Newbery’s production and the bat’s true-to-brand performance.
Best DSC Bat of 2024: DSC BLAK 4000
The DSC Blak 4000, popular among professionals like Ash Gardner and Alex Hales, excelled in tests. It delivers great power and control, especially on low-bouncing surfaces. Alex Tudor noted its suitability for such conditions due to its low middle.
GRAY-NICOLLS POWERSPOT MB 300 3-STAR
The Powerspot, favored by David Gower and Michael Atherton, remains a top choice for nostalgic fans. It’s lightweight, with a low bow and sweet spot, making it a versatile bat with excellent build quality.
How We Chose & Tested Bats:
We selected a range of 'off-the-shelf' bats from various brands and price ranges through specialist retailer Owzat Cricket. Testing took place at Reed School in Surrey, involving shots by ex-England pro Alex Tudor, Cricketer staff, and students. Bats were rated on initial impressions, build quality, pick-up and feel, and performance, leading to a final overall score.
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