Cost and Configuration of Cricket Bats Used by Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni

Cricket enthusiasts often wonder about the cost and features of the bats used by professional players like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. In this article, we explore the details of the bats used by these legendary players and the specifics behind their high-quality selections.

Cost of Cricket Bats

The cost of cricket bats used by professional players such as Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni can vary significantly based on the brand, model, and specifications. For instance, the bats used by Virat Kohli are primarily from brands like MRF and Kookaburra, with a price range of approximately 200 to 400 or more, depending on the specific model and customization. MS Dhoni often uses bats from Reebok and SS Sareen Sports, with a similar cost range of 150 to 350 or higher.

These prices can fluctuate based on factors like market demand, availability, and whether the bat is a replica or a signed model. For the most accurate and current pricing, it is advisable to check with sports retailers or official websites.

Customized Bats for Elite Players

It is important to note that the bats used by these players are not the same ones available in the market. They are typically made by bespoke manufacturers specifically for the players, often incorporating their sponsor logos and personalized requirements. For example, Virat Kohli uses the MRF Genius Grand Edition bat, a high-quality Grade 1 English willow bat weighing between 1170 to 1210 g, with a market value of around 17,000 INR. MS Dhoni's bat, the Spartan MSD 7 Limited Edition, is handcrafted by master bat makers, with a balanced mid-range profile, a full-body traditional spine, and a rubber handle for control and power, weighing around 1150 to 1275 gms, with a cost of approximately 24,000 INR.

The bats used by Kohli and Dhoni are not only designed for optimal performance but also tailored to their individual specifications, including dimensions, weight, sweet spot, grip, and other factors that ensure the players’ comfort and confidence at the crease.

Endorsement Deals and Customization

Many people mistakenly believe that players use the bats of the companies they endorse. However, this is not the case. The players receive endorsements not to use the bats but to promote them. For instance, while Virat Kohli endorses MRF, he does not use an off-the-shelf MRF bat but a custom-made bat with MRF branding. The same applies to MS Dhoni and Spartan bat endorsements. These endorsement deals involve significant financial payments that the players earn for promoting the products, often in the crores.

The customization of bats for players like Kohli and Dhoni ensures that the bats meet their specific needs and preferences, giving them an edge in their performances. The collaboration with manufacturers like MRF and Spartan allows for the incorporation of sponsors' logos, yet the bats are not merely pre-fabricated but finely crafted to fit the individual's gameplay and techniques.

Marketing Strategies and Brand Building

The online sales of these bats are often a part of marketing strategies and brand building efforts. These sales are not a reflection of the regular market prices but rather an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of the players and create a demand for the products. For example, the online sales of Virat Kohli's MRF Genius bat and MS Dhoni's Spartan bat often include personalized branding and limited edition features, marketed specifically to fans and collectors.

Cricket players like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni have their bats made by bespoke manufacturers, with specifications tailored to their playstyle and preferences, which is why it is unlikely that any of the bats sold online are exactly the same as those used in their matches.

Conclusion

The bats used by professional cricketers such as Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni are highly customized to meet their specific requirements and are not the same as those available in the market. While they endorse certain brands, the bats they use are made specifically for them by experienced manufacturers, often incorporating their sponsors' logos. Understanding the cost and configuration of these bats provides insights into the meticulous preparation that goes into ensuring these players have the best equipment.

Cricket fans can appreciate the value and care that go into the equipment of these top players, and the marketing strategies employed to promote their brands.