Wicketkeeping gloves and pads are essential gear for a wicketkeeper in cricket. They provide protection to the hands and legs while also offering flexibility and grip to catch the ball effectively.
Wicketkeeping Gloves:
Wicketkeeping gloves are heavily padded to protect the hands from the impact of the ball.
They have reinforced padding on the fingers and palm areas, where the ball is most likely to strike.
The gloves also have webbing between the fingers to provide flexibility while catching.
Modern gloves often feature additional wrist support to prevent injuries and offer a snug fit.
Protection:
Wicketkeeping gloves provide protection to the hands of the wicketkeeper from the hard cricket ball. The gloves are padded to absorb the impact of fast deliveries and protect against injuries.
Grip:
The gloves offer a better grip on the ball, allowing the wicketkeeper to catch and hold onto the ball securely. The palm area often has textured materials or rubber inserts to enhance grip.
Flexibility:
Good quality of wicketkeeping gloves and pads are designed to provide flexibility and dexterity to the hands, enabling the wicketkeeper to move freely while maintaining a firm grip on the ball.
Durability:
Wicketkeeping gloves are made from high-quality materials to ensure durability, as they undergo significant wear and tear during matches and practice sessions.
Wicketkeeping Pads (Leg Guards):
Wicketkeeping pads, also known as leg guards, protect the wicketkeeper’s legs from fast-moving balls.
They are lightweight and flexible to allow the wicketkeeper to move freely.
The pads have ample padding around the shin and knee areas, where impact is most likely to occur.
Some pads feature additional protection around the inner thigh and knee to guard against impact from the bat or bails.
Protection: Wicketkeeping pads, also known as leg guards or pads, protect the legs of the wicketkeeper from fast-paced deliveries. They cover the shin and knee areas to minimize the risk of injury from cricket balls.
Comfort:
Pads are designed to provide comfort to the wicketkeeper while crouching behind the stumps for long periods. They are cushioned and lightweight to allow ease of movement.
Flexibility:
Modern wicketkeeping pads are constructed to offer flexibility without compromising protection. They allow the wicketkeeper to move swiftly and perform diving saves without restriction.
Straps:
Pads feature adjustable straps and buckles to ensure a secure fit around the legs, preventing them from slipping or moving during intense action on the field.
Several companies specialize in manufacturing wicketkeeping equipment, including gloves and pads. Here are some well-known brands in this niche:
Wicket keeping gloves manufacturing companies
Gray-Nicolls:
A renowned cricket equipment manufacturer, Gray-Nicolls produces a wide range of wicketkeeping gloves and pads known for their quality, durability, and innovative design.
Kookaburra:
Kookaburra is another leading brand in the cricket equipment industry, offering an extensive selection of wicketkeeping gloves and pads. Their products are popular among professional and amateur cricketers alike.
SG (Sanspareils Greenlands):
SG is a trusted Indian brand that manufactures high-quality cricket gear, including wicketkeeping equipment. Their gloves and pads are known for their comfort and protection.
GM (Gunn & Moore):
GM is a well-established cricket equipment manufacturer known for its innovative designs and high-performance gear. Their wicketkeeping gloves and pads are favored by many professional cricketers.
SS (Sareen Sports Industries):
SS is another prominent Indian brand that produces a wide range of cricket equipment, including wicketkeeping gear. Their products are known for their quality craftsmanship and affordability.
New Balance:
Although primarily known for their sports shoes, New Balance also manufactures cricket equipment, including wicketkeeping gloves and pads. Their products are known for their comfort and performance.
Puma:
Puma offers a range of cricket gear, including wicketkeeping equipment. Their gloves and pads combine style with functionality, appealing to cricketers of all levels.
These are just a few examples of companies that manufacture wicketkeeping equipment. Each brand offers different features, designs, and price points to cater to the diverse needs of cricketers around the world.
Overall, wicketkeeping gloves and pads are indispensable for wicketkeepers, offering protection, grip, flexibility, and comfort, enabling them to perform their role effectively behind the stumps.
Both gloves and pads are crucial for a wicketkeeper to perform effectively behind the stumps. They not only protect against potential injuries but also enhance the keeper’s ability to catch and field the ball with confidence.
Wicketkeeping Manufacturing Companies In Pakistan
In Pakistan, several companies specialize in manufacturing cricket equipment, including wicketkeeping gear.
Some prominent Pakistani brands known for producing high-quality wicketkeeping gloves and pads include:
CA Sports (Ihsan Sports):
CA Sports, also known as Ihsan Sports, is one of Pakistan’s leading cricket equipment manufacturers. They offer a wide range of cricket gear, including wicketkeeping gloves and pads, known for their durability and performance.
HS (Hammer Series):
HS Cricket, part of the Hammer Series, is a well-known brand in Pakistan that manufactures cricket equipment, including wicketkeeping gear. Their products are popular among cricketers for their quality and affordability.
MB Malik:
MB Malik is another established cricket equipment brand based in Pakistan. They produce a variety of cricket gear, including wicketkeeping gloves and pads, known for their quality craftsmanship and comfort.
Boom Boom (Boom Boom Cricket):
Boom Boom Cricket is a Pakistani brand that specializes in manufacturing cricket equipment. They offer a range of wicketkeeping gear designed to meet the needs of both professional and amateur cricketers.
AS (Ahmed Shahzad):
AS Cricket, founded by Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shahzad, is known for its cricket equipment, including wicketkeeping gloves and pads. Their products are designed to provide performance and durability on the field.
These are some of the notable Pakistani companies that manufacture wicketkeeping equipment. Each brand offers its own unique designs, features, and price points to cater to the preferences of cricketers in Pakistan and beyond.
As of my last update in January 2022, Virat Kohli, the Indian cricketer, had a sponsorship deal with New Balance for his cricket gear, including bats and footwear. However, regarding the specific brand of gloves he uses, there wasn’t any definitive information publicly available. Kohli’s choice of wicketkeeping gloves might vary based on personal preference or sponsorship agreements. It’s worth noting that sponsorship deals can change over time, so it’s a good idea to check the latest updates for the most accurate information on Virat Kohli’s equipment preferences.
