Cricket Bat Grading Explained
Procurement leads buying cricket bats at wholesale need to read grades like wine sommeliers read vintages. Here's the field guide.
Willow types
- English willow (Salix alba caerulea) — lighter, more responsive ping, premium tier.
- Kashmir willow (Salix alba) — denser, more durable, training tier.
English willow grading (Grade 1 to 4)
| Grade | Grain count | Heart | Buyer tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | 6+ | Bright, even | Pro / county club |
| Grade 2 | 5–6 | Even, minor specks | Serious club |
| Grade 3 | 4–5 | Some discoloration | School program |
| Grade 4 | 3–4 | Butterfly / heart stain | Beginner, retail entry |
Kashmir willow tiers
- Premium Kashmir — straight grains, good ping for the price.
- Standard Kashmir — training and beginner programs.
Weight range
Senior bats: 2 lb 7 oz to 3 lb 2 oz. Heavier bats deliver more power, lighter bats give more bat speed. Most pros sit at 2 lb 9 oz – 2 lb 11 oz.
Order at wholesale
See our cricket range — English willow Grade 1–4 and Kashmir willow, knocked and oiled, custom stickers. MOQ from 50, 30-day lead time.