English willow bats are known for their outstanding quality, but that's not the only reason they are popular. Many professional cricket players swear by their performance, and this article will share why! Read on to learn all the basics about the English willow bat, from their grades to specific features that can improve your game.
It's all about the wood.
English willow (Salix alba caerulea) is one of the many species of willow trees mostly found in the UK. It's a popular choice for cricket bats thanks to its unique blend of properties.
While it's technically a hardwood, English willow shares some characteristics with softwoods that make it easier to shape into a bat. Its distinctive cellular structure (known as diffuse porous) gives it a good balance of strength and flexibility that's essential for cricket bats, allowing them to withstand the force of the ball while remaining lightweight and easy to handle! And even though it's lighter than many tropical hardwoods, English willow can absorb the impact of the ball just as well.
How does English willow compare to Kashmir willow?
Kashmir willow bats are crafted from Salix alba trees found in the Kashmir region. The region's humid climate contributes to denser wood compared to that used in English willow bats. Visually, Kashmir willow bats often have a brownish hue, while English willow bats tend to be a lighter color.
Why use English willow?
Many professional cricketers use English willow bats because they are light and easier to swing, giving better control and maneuverability on the field. English willow bats also have a larger sweet spot, which means you're more likely to make clean contact with the ball.
Understanding English willow bat grades
When shopping for an English willow cricket bat, you will likely notice that they come in 5 distinct grades. The highest quality is Grade 1, which means the bat has straighter grains for optimum performance and power. Grade 2 bats may have irregular grain patterns and some blemishes, but they still offer great performance.
One of the downsides of English willow bats is their price point, which can be significantly expensive. However, Grade 3 and 4 bats are more economical despite their aesthetic flaws. That said, they may be more suitable for casual players and beginners.
Where to buy an English willow bat
All About Cricket Store offers the best selection of English willow bats from top brands, such as SWAR, MRF, SM, SG, Focus, SF, GM, BDM, BAS, New Balance, Gray Nicolls, Kookaburra, and DSC. Every bat is rigorously inspected by their in-house team before dispatch, ensuring a high-quality product. Plus, All About Cricket offers a knocking service!
Visit their website today to shop for the best English willow cricket bat. Their price match guarantee ensures the most reasonably priced gear for your game. Plus, they offer complimentary shipping on orders over $400 (Canada) and $200 (USA).
