Once you have decided your preferred model, you need to choose a grade of Willow. Grading is not a perfect science and can be subjective from one person to another. This is largely because no two clefts of willow are the same – even from the same willow tree. However, working with our batmakers who have over 40 years of experience handcrafting cricket bats, we have created a guide below to showcase the differences in willow and the key characteristics in each of them.

Also note, while the grading below focuses mainly on the look of the cricket bat, grading is also a combination of weight, density, balance and ‘ping’ of the mallet.

Signature

• This is the BEST of the BEST.
• Hand selected Grade 1+ English Willow
• Handcrafted in England by our Master Bat maker
• Selected for grain structure and weight
• Light density cleft allows bigger profile in lighter weights.
• Limited by willow availability
• Bats individually tested to ensure 5-star performance
• Dramatically thick edges for extreme power.
• Premium 12-piece cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Platinum

• Hand selected Superior Grade 1 English Willow
• Handcrafted in England by our Master Bat maker
• Predominantly straight grained with a hint of heartwood on either edge.
• Light density profile allows bigger profile in lighter weights.
• Dramatically thick edges for extreme power.
• Premium 12-piece cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Elite

• Grade 1 English Willow
• Handcrafted in England by our Master Bat maker
• Predominantly straight grained with a hint of colour and minor cosmetic blemishes.
• Selected for weight and profile.
• Premium 12-piece cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.
Limited Edition

• Premium Grade 1 English Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers.
• Selected for grain structure and weight
• Predominantly blemish free on the face
• Premium cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Players

• Grade 1/2 English Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers
• Minor cosmetic blemishes and some colour to one edge.
• Selected for weight and performance
• Premium cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Pro

• Superior Grade 2 English Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers
• Minor blemishes may have some colour to one edge.
• Selected for performance
• Premium cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.
Performance

• Superior Grade 3 English Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers
• Minor blemishes, may have some colour to one edge
• Selected for performance
• Premium cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Club

• Grade 4 English Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers
• Minor blemishes may have some colour on edge and some stain/speck.
• Selected for performance
• Comes fitted with a fibre glass bat sheet.
• Premium cane oval handle delivers improved power, feel, grip and performance.

 Legacy

• Superior grade Kashmir Willow
• Handcrafted by our specialist bat makers
• Performance tested
• Comes fitted with a fibre glass bat sheet.
• Toe protector for better durability and maintaining the moisture level