When it comes to choosing the right cricket bat, the conversation inevitably turns to two contenders: English willow and Kashmir willow. They represent different philosophies, different price points, and ultimately, different playing experiences. In this blog, we focus on the English willow bat and why many serious cricket players say that it’s the better choice.
Is the English willow bat really superior to the Kashmir willow?
English willow cricket bats are generally considered superior to Kashmir willow bats, but it's not as simple as saying one is always better than the other. They both possess unique performance characteristics and cater to different needs and budgets.
That said, many players prefer the English willow bat because it is lighter and supports faster bat speeds and better maneuverability. Known for their responsiveness, English Willow bats also tend to have a larger sweet spot, so even if you don't hit the ball perfectly dead center, you'll still get a good connection. The ball won't lose as much speed or direction as it would with a smaller sweet spot.
How is an English willow cricket bat made?
The detailed process starts with choosing the best willow pieces. Bat makers meticulously inspect each piece, looking at the grain and density before carefully shaping it into a blade. During this process, they pay close attention to the bat's balance and the placement of the sweet spot.
The bat is then ‘pressed’ — a process that compresses the wood to improve performance. The amount of pressure used depends on the type of bat being made, and it's all done to maximize the bat's rebound, power, and feel. Pressing increases the willow’s density for strength and improved rebound.
Finally, the bats are sanded and coated for protection and then branded. These final steps are not just aesthetic but actually add to the durability
Explore our selection
All About Cricket offers a wide selection of English willow cricket bats in various grades, so you're sure to find one that suits both your playing style and your budget. We stock top brands like Focus, GM, GN, BAS, BDM, DSC, SF, SG, SM, Kookaburra, MRF, NB, and SS.