The CA Pro Dark Edition is CA Sports' blacked-out players bat: Grade 1 English willow, a hybrid blade shaped around a power bow, and edges up to 40mm. CA call it "elite craftsmanship, uncompromising power", and the spec backs that up.

It is aimed at competitive cricketers who want explosive stroke play without losing stability, and it arrives fully knocked and match-ready rather than needing weeks with a mallet first.

CA Pro Dark Edition specifications

Hybrid blade, power bow and 40mm edges

The bow is the curve through the face of the blade, and a power bow is a more pronounced one. It brings more wood behind the ball at impact and pushes the hitting area forward, which is what makes a bat feel like it is doing some of the work for you on the drive. Pair that with edges up to 40mm and a thick sweet spot and you have a blade built for hitting through the line, while the hybrid shaping keeps it stable rather than simply heavy at the front.

Handle and vibration control

A premium three-piece cane handle with an ergonomic grip damps the vibration that comes back up the handle on a thick-edged bat and keeps the blade responsive through the shot. Prefer a thicker handle or a chevron grip? Add an extra grip above and we will fit it before dispatch.

The Dark Edition finish

Worth being clear about, because it is the first thing people ask: the black is a finish, not a different bat. Underneath it is the same Grade 1 English willow as the rest of the CA Pro line. It looks considerably better in a kit bag and plays exactly the same.

Fully knocked, and what our prep adds

CA supply the Pro Dark Edition fully knocked and match-ready, so there is no fortnight of mallet work before you can use it, and they recommend a light pre-oiling first. Our Bat Preparation service picks up from there rather than repeating it: linseed oil, 24 hours drying, further knocking worked into the edges and toe, a scuff sheet and edge tape. The edges and toe are where the last of the work needs doing, and where bats actually break — cheap insurance on a blade this good. Short Handle is stocked as standard, Long Handle to order.

Buy the CA Pro Dark Edition in the UK

Crystal Sports is an independent cricket shop in Luton, Bedfordshire, stocking the Pro Dark Edition alongside the wider CA cricket bat range. Order online with tracked UK delivery, or visit Unit 2, 200 Dunstable Road, Luton LU4 8JL to compare them in person.

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