What a cricket fabric has to do
Cricket is different from most team sports. Players are in the field for hours, often in strong sun, with bursts of sprinting, diving and bowling. A good cricket fabric should:
- breathe so players stay cool through a long innings;
- wick sweat and dry quickly;
- stretch with bowling and diving actions;
- hold colour through a long season of washing;
- resist grass and dirt stains as far as possible.
Shirts: interlock, bird-eye and mesh
| Fabric | Feel | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Interlock | Smooth and soft | All-round match shirts; takes sublimation beautifully |
| Bird-eye | Textured, small holes | Hot climates and summer leagues |
| Micro-mesh panels | Very open | Under the arms and down the back, combined with either of the above |
For Pakistan, the Gulf, Texas or Florida, we recommend bird-eye or interlock with micro-mesh panels. For the UK’s cooler early season, a standard interlock is usually enough.
Trousers: stretch polyester
Cricket trousers need room to move. Stretch polyester with elastane gives freedom for bowling and fielding while keeping a clean shape. Look for:
- an elastic waist with drawcord or belt loops;
- zip pockets so balls and keys stay put;
- a reinforced seat and knee area for diving.
Whites
Whites face the hardest test: grass stains, red-ball marks and constant washing. Polyester or poly-cotton whites stay white longer, dry faster and resist creasing better than pure cotton. Badges are embroidered because white cannot be sublimated. See our cricket whites.
Fabric weight
Heavier fabrics last longer but feel warmer. For match shirts in hot climates, a lighter weight is more comfortable; for whites and training wear, a mid-weight lasts longer. Read fabric GSM explained.
Our recommendation
For most clubs: interlock or bird-eye shirts with mesh panels, stretch polyester trousers, and polyester-blend whites. We send fabric options with your quote and make a sample before bulk production. See custom cricket kits.
Frequently asked questions
Is cotton good for cricket whites?
Pure cotton feels traditional but stays wet, creases and yellows. Most modern whites use polyester or poly-cotton blends for easier care.
Should cricket shirts be half or full sleeve?
Half sleeves are cooler and most popular. Full sleeves offer sun protection and are common in some leagues and for bowlers who prefer them.