Srinagar ~ Kashmir's cricket bat industry earned international attention this week as GR8 Sports India Pvt. Ltd., the only ICC-approved bat manufacturer from the region, took part in the MCC Cricket Bat Conference at Lord's Cricket Ground in London.

The event brought together administrators, manufacturers, importers, and researchers to discuss the growing scarcity of traditional English willow and to consider alternative materials for cricket bat production.

Representing India, Fawzul Kabiir, Managing Director of GR8 Sports, joined a panel discussion titled“The Willow Situation” alongside bat makers from England and Australia. In his remarks, Kabiir argued that Kashmir Willow offers a viable substitute for English willow-one that is more sustainable and significantly cheaper.

He said bats made from Kashmir Willow cost roughly one-twentieth of English willow bats, potentially expanding access to quality equipment for players around the world. Kabiir also addressed concerns about performance, noting that GR8-manufactured bats have been used by 47 international cricketers in both men's and women's cricket.

“Kashmir Willow represents a blend of sustainability, affordability, and craftsmanship,” Kabiir said.“Its growing acceptance reflects not just the potential of the material but also the capability of local manufacturers.”

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