Top 6 Costliest Cricket Bats in the World
Cricket is a sport rich in tradition and prestige, and among its iconic equipment, the cricket bat stands out as both a tool of the game and a symbol of personal achievement. For some, a cricket bat is not just a piece of sporting gear but a statement of luxury and exclusivity. Here’s a look at the top 6 most expensive cricket bats in the world, each representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship, material, and status.
6. Virat Kohli 2018 Test Century Bat
Cricket legend Virat Kohli led Test cricket in 2018 with 1322 runs at an average of 55.03. At an auction in December 2021, his MRF-sponsored bat from that era brought in ₹75 Lakhs ($750K USD), showcasing both its exceptional value and his remarkable career.
5. Brian Lara 1994 Century Bat
Using a famous English willow bat, Brian Lara made cricket history in 1994 by reaching an undefeated 400 runs in an innings during a Test match against England in Antigua. Later, in December 2021, this bat was auctioned for ₹80 Lakhs, or almost $1.2 million, which is a testament to Lara’s incredible accomplishment.
4. Sachin Tendulkar 2003 World Cup Bat
Sachin Tendulkar was a noteworthy player in the 2003 Cricket World Cup held in South Africa. He amassed 673 runs with several memorable innings, including a 98-run effort against Pakistan. His legendary status in cricket was highlighted when his Adidas and MRF bats from that tournament were up for auction in December 2021, fetching ₹1 Crore ($1 Million USD).
3. Gary Sobers 1968 Bat
Former West Indies cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers made history in August 1968 by becoming the first cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in first-class cricket. His Gray Nicolls bat from that year was sold for ₹1.2 Crore (approximately $1.6 Million USD) in a December 2021 auction.
2.MS Dhoni 2011 World Cup six Hitting Bat
In the 2011 ODI World Cup final, MS Dhoni’s iconic six off Nuwan Kulasekara ended India’s 28-year wait for the title. The Reebok bat he used in that match was auctioned in December 2021 for ₹1.5 Crore ($2 Million USD), symbolizing its historic value in cricket.
1. Donald Bradman 1934 Ashes Series Bat
Known as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Sir Donald Bradman demonstrated his genius in the 1934 Ashes series, amassing 758 runs at an average of 94.75. His Kookaburra bat from that series, presently kept in the Bradman Museum in Bowral, was sold at auction in December 2021 for ₹1.9 Crore ($2.5 million USD), to an Australian collector.