A tap ball bat is a specially designed bat used for playing a variation of cricket called Tap Ball Cricket. This form of cricket is particularly popular in Pakistan and some other countries, where it is played in parks, streets, or open spaces with a smaller, softer ball. The bat itself differs from traditional cricket bats in several key ways:

1. Size and Weight: Tap ball bats are usually shorter and lighter than standard cricket bats. This makes them easier to handle and maneuver, especially in smaller spaces where quick reactions are important.

2. Material: While traditional cricket bats are made from English or Kashmir willow, tap ball bats are often made from a mixture of wood and composite materials. This gives them a slightly different feel and durability, making them more suitable for the tap ball's soft texture.

3. Design: Tap ball bats typically have a thicker edge and a more rounded profile. This is to help players hit the smaller, softer tap ball more effectively, with a larger sweet spot for easier ball contact.

4. Use: In tap ball cricket, the bat is used to strike a rubber or tennis ball. The game can be played on smaller fields, and the rules are often adapted to fit the environment.

Tap ball cricket is often seen as a more informal, fun version of the sport, with fewer regulations and a focus on quick action and improvisation.