Cricket originated in 16th century England and has spread across the globe. A bowler launches the ball at a batsman, who hits it and earns runs as the fielders recover it. A good bat is essential, and English willow is a suitably robust yet also light material to use. Willow comes in many species and grades, and Salix alba coerulea is considered the finest for making cricket bats.
Willow
All cricket bats used by professionals are made of willow. According to the British Royal Forestry Society, cheaper bats are made from Kashmir willow, which grows on the Indian subcontinent, but all the best and most expensive bats are made from English willow trees. Growing cricket bat willows is a specialist's venture. They are grown in special beds from long cuttings, which must be perfectly straight and blemish-free, and measure 3-1/2 m. The willows grow best near streams and must be protected from animals. After 12 to 15 years, they should stand around 12 m tall and are ready to be harvested.
Cricket Bats
According to the Royal Forestry Society, to make cricket bats, the trees are felled, sawed and cut into clefts. These clefts are made into blades of cricket bats. The blade runs along the length of the bat, and it is used by batsmen to strike the ball. After nine to 12 months seasoning in a drying yard, master craftsmen sand and sculpt the bats and add a cane and rubber handle. According to Owzat Cricket, willow cricket bats come in five grades, from grade one plus to grade four. The best bats are grade one willow. They are made from straight grains with minimal marking or discoloration, and are often reserved for professionals and on Limited Edition, Ultimate, SPS or Pro-Performance bats.
Best Bats
The website King Cricket is sponsored by Wisden Almanack, the world's largest cricket magazine and reference book, and it names three cricket bats as the finest around. Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting favors the Bookaburra Big Kahuna, which is large and powerful yet also light. The Puma Stealth 4000 has a large striking zone on its blade and offers good balance, is another award-winning bat. Completing the top three is the Warsop Venom Pro.
Maintenance
To maintain the quality of the willow on your bat, you must devote time and energy. Gently sanding your bat and applying a coat of linseed oil is recommended by Owzat Cricket. One to two hours before playing a match, you should knock in the willow fibers on your bat with a bat mallet. Your bat should be stored in a cool, dry place, so avoid heaters and airing closets. A transparent, anti-scruff surface sheet reduces damage to the willow's surface, and toe guards shield your bat from water and friction.
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