Cricket bat size regulations: length, width, depth and edges
MCC's 2026 Law 5 sets a maximum overall length of 96.52 cm, blade width of 10.8 cm, depth of 6.7 cm and edges of 4.0 cm. Those are equipment limits, not recommended dimensions for your height.
Check your size →The four measurements to check
Overall length includes the fitted handle. Width is across the blade; depth and edge thickness are separate measurements. A listing that gives only a '40 mm edge' does not establish that the whole bat complies.
The table summarises Law 5.7 in MCC's 2017 Code, fourth edition (2026). Use the linked law and your competition's conditions for the full requirements, not this table as a certificate for an individual bat.
| Measurement | Maximum |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 965.2 mm (96.52 cm) |
| Blade width | 108 mm (10.8 cm) |
| Blade depth | 67 mm (6.7 cm) |
| Edge thickness | 40 mm (4.0 cm) |
The gauge is an additional check
MCC also requires the bat to pass through the prescribed gauge, including permitted protective coverings. A home ruler check does not replace that requirement. Ask your club or competition how equipment is checked if you are unsure.
When buying a heavily profiled or modified bat, ask the seller to confirm compliance for the finished setup. Keep their response with the product description. Do not rely on a photograph of one measurement taken on a different example of the model.
Grips and protective fittings are not unlimited
Law 5.7 caps blade-covering material at 1 mm and toe protection at 3 mm. Except for size 6 and smaller bats, the handle must not exceed 52% of the bat's overall length.
If adding protection or commissioning a repair, ask the maker to check the completed bat against Law 5 and Appendix B. Avoid building up layers first and checking eligibility afterwards.
Legal size is not player fit
An adult maximum is not a target for a junior. Start with the player's measured height and the relevant maker's size chart, then compare the pickup and control of the individual bats. A compliant bat can still be much too long or heavy for its owner.
Keep two separate questions on the shopping list: can this bat be used in the competition, and can this player use it comfortably? A size label such as Harrow or Short Handle is not an answer to both.
If your current bat is difficult to control, do not replace it solely with the largest blade that meets the rules. Compare an appropriate size and finished weight first.
Before buying or modifying a bat
- Confirm the applicable competition conditions with the organiser.
- Ask for the finished bat's dimensions, not a generic range description.
- Ask whether its fitted protection was included in the compliance check.
- Check the right player-height size separately.
- Recheck after substantial alteration or additional fittings.
- Refer disputed eligibility to the competition or match officials, not a shopping guide.
Sources and review
Published 9 October 2026. Written with AI assistance and checked against the primary sources below. No hands-on product test or coach review is claimed. Follow the instructions for your own bat and fittings.