Wicket Keeping Gloves
Wicket keeping is an important role in cricket and requires proper equipment to perform well. Along with a cricket bat and kit, wicket keepers need specialized gear such as wicket keeping gloves and pads. Lets focus on wicket keeping gloves and their importance in protecting hands while catching balls and performing stumping.
Wicket Keeping Gloves Size Guide
Wicket keeping gloves come in different sizes and it is important to choose the right size for maximum comfort, grip and protection. Below is a wicket keeping gloves size chart for UK players:
Hand Length (mm) |
Wicket Keeping Glove Size |
165 |
Small Boys |
175 |
Boys |
190 |
Youths |
200 |
Small Men |
210 |
Men |
225 |
Large/Oversize Men |
Wicket Keeping Gloves Features
- Wicket keeping gloves have several features that make them essential for wicket keepers.
- The palm lining of the glove is the area above the palm of the hand and is used to catch the ball. It requires utmost protection since it is prone to injury.
- Wicket keeping gloves should be soft and comfortable from the inside to avoid rubbing and chaffing.
- The palm padding of the gloves provides maximum protection and has shock absorption qualities, which help wicket keepers catch balls without bouncing or dropping them.
- Finger end caps are cylindrical in shape, open at one end, and fit inside the wicket keeping gloves fingers to protect the most injury-prone area for wicket keepers. Some gloves also have extra foam padding inside finger end caps for further protection.
Wicket Keeping Gloves Benefits
A good pair of wicket keeping gloves is essential for wicket keepers to perform their duties with confidence and safety. Wicket keeping gloves provide the following benefits:
- Protection from injury while catching balls and performing stumping
- Maximum comfort and grip for better performance
- Absorb sweat to keep hands dry during long innings
- Durability and longevity with proper care and maintenance
Wicket Keeping Gloves FAQs
Q1. Why do wicket keepers wear inner gloves?
Ans. Wicket keepers wear inner gloves to absorb sweat and provide an extra layer of protection to their hands.
Q2. How often should you change wicket keeping gloves?
Ans. The lifespan of wicket keeping gloves varies depending on usage. To increase their lifespan, it is advisable to clean them every week or fortnight.
Q3. What to look for when buying wicket keeping gloves?
Ans. When buying wicket keeping gloves, look for protection, grip, and comfort.
Q4. Can wicket keepers remove both gloves while wicket keeping?
Ans. Wicket keepers can remove both gloves, but it is not advisable since they are the only fielder allowed to wear gloves and pads for their protection. However, some wicket keepers remove a single glove in the dying minutes of the match to aim better while hitting the wicket.