How to choose the right cricket ball

It depends on who's playing. Under the Laws of Cricket, a men's ball weighs between 155.9g and 163g, a women's ball between 140g and 151g, and a junior (under 13) ball between 133g and 144g. Junior formats often use lighter or softer balls again, so it's worth checking with your club or association before you buy. If you're unsure, ask the coach what the age group plays with.

The colour is mostly about visibility. Red balls are traditional for longer matches played in white clothing, while white balls are used in one-day and limited-overs cricket where players wear coloured kit. Brighter balls, such as orange, are easy to spot and work well for practice and casual games. White balls tend to show dirt and wear sooner than red ones, so they may need replacing more often.

Wipe it with a dry cloth after each session and let it dry naturally if it gets damp, away from heaters and direct sun. Heat and moisture can dry out the leather and loosen the stitching. Store it somewhere cool and dry, and keep your match ball apart from your practice balls so it doesn't pick up extra scuffs.

Batters facing a leather ball should wear a helmet, pads, batting gloves and an abdominal guard, and wicketkeepers need their own gloves and pads. Fielders close to the bat often wear a helmet too. For younger players, follow the club's safety guidance and make sure play is supervised. If you're just starting out, a soft ball lets you learn the skills before stepping up.

If you play in a team, the club usually supplies match balls, so a training ball for nets and fielding practice is often the better buy. Training grades cost less and are built to take a beating. If you're buying for a social game or want to practise with the same feel as match day, a higher grade ball holds its shape and seam for longer. Many players keep one of each.