Safety equipment is not an option in cricket, where balls can travel at breakneck speeds; it is a need. The cricket abdominal guard, sometimes referred to as a box or groin guard, is one of the most important elements of protection for any cricket player. Although it's simple to ignore this little but essential piece of equipment, appropriate maintenance is essential to guaranteeing both protection and performance on the field.
At Cox50, we believe that every cricketer—whether playing street cricket or representing their state—deserves high-quality protective gear and the right knowledge to take care of it. This blog covers everything you need to know about cricket abdominal guard maintenance to help extend its life and keep your protection at its best.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
Your abdominal guard is your first line of defense against potential injuries from fast deliveries, bouncers, and awkward deflections. A poorly maintained or worn-out guard can compromise safety, cause discomfort, and even lead to injury.
Some common issues due to poor maintenance include:
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Cracks or weakening in the guard shell
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Foul odors and bacterial build-up
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Reduced cushioning or padding
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Improper fit due to material wear or warping
Maintaining your cricket abdominal guard not only improves its durability but also ensures consistent performance, hygiene, and comfort.
Tip 1: Clean It After Every Use
Cleaning your abdominal guard on a regular basis, preferably after each practice or game, is one of the most crucial things you can do. The cup may become wet and sweaty, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and bad smells.
How to clean it:
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Use a mild soap or antibacterial wipe to clean the inner and outer surface.
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Rinse thoroughly with water if needed, but avoid soaking for long periods.
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Dry with a clean towel and air it out fully before storing.
At Cox50, we design cricket abdominal guards with ventilation grooves to allow better airflow, making post-use cleaning easier and more effective.
Tip 2: Never Leave It in Your Kit Bag Wet
After a game, a lot of players put their equipment back in their kit bag, which is regrettably one of the worst things you can do for your abdominal guard. Mold and bacteria thrive in the warm, dark, and enclosed conditions of a kit bag.
Always dry the guard completely before storing. If you’ve used it during a particularly sweaty or rainy session, wipe it off and let it air dry separately from the rest of your gear. If you have a breathable gear pouch, store the guard there for better airflow.
Tip 3: Inspect It Regularly for Damage
Before each use, take a few seconds to inspect your cricket abdominal guard for any visible cracks, warping, or signs of wear. Even a hairline crack can reduce its impact resistance significantly.
What to look for:
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Cracks in the shell, especially near the edges
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Softening or flaking of inner padding
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Warping or misshaping from heat or pressure
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Loose stitching (if your guard has fabric edges or padding)
If your guard is more than a year old and sees regular use, it's wise to consider replacing it—even if no visible damage is present. At COX50, our guards are tested for impact durability, but like all safety equipment, they have a natural lifespan.
Tip 4: Store It in a Cool, Dry Place
Extreme temperatures and humidity can warp plastic guards or degrade inner padding. Avoid leaving your abdominal guard in the trunk of your car, near windows, or anywhere exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Best practices for storage:
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Keep it in a separate mesh pouch inside your gear bag.
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Ensure it’s completely dry before packing it away.
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Avoid placing heavy items on top of it that could deform its shape.
Proper storage not only preserves its structure but also helps maintain the comfort and fit of the cricket abdominal guard over time.
Tip 5: Use a Proper Support or Jockstrap
The best-maintained guard is only useful if it stays in place. Wearing your abdominal guard with the right support—like a cricket-specific jockstrap or guard brief—ensures it sits correctly and absorbs impact the way it’s designed to.
A poorly fitting support can:
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Cause the guard to shift during movement
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Reduce protection in critical moments
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Lead to chafing or discomfort
Cox50 recommends using high-quality cricket briefs or shorts designed specifically to hold the abdominal guard securely in place. This not only improves performance but extends the life of the guard by minimizing stress on its structure.
Tip 6: Replace It When It’s Time
Even the best cricket abdominal guard won’t last forever. Over time, plastic materials can weaken, and padding may compress or break down. If your guard no longer feels solid or secure, it’s time to upgrade.
At Cox50, we offer a range of guards made from advanced impact-resistant materials, with improved airflow and ergonomic design. Our guards are built for serious protection—but we always encourage replacing them if performance or comfort is compromised.
Final Thoughts
A tiny but crucial component of your safety equipment is the cricket abdominal guard. Its lifespan and your safety can be greatly increased by taking a few extra minutes to properly clean, dry, check, and store it.
At Cox50, we’re committed to equipping cricketers with top-tier gear and the knowledge to use it wisely. Whether you’re just starting out or play professionally, never compromise on protection—and never neglect the gear that protects you.