My dear late Dad used to say, 'you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!'
Dad was a bricklayer by trade, and he would often use this phrase when dealing with a poor-quality batch of bricks; he couldn't create a beautiful house with inferior materials. Quote: "Terry Blatherwick, Cricketer, Master Craftsman and King of all Blatherwicks"
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| Terry the Cricketer | Terry the Builder |
Well, the same principle applies to making a great cricket bat. If you don't have the best willow, you can't make a great cricket bat.
Here at B3, you can rest assured we only use the very best, genuine English willow from JS Wright and Sons, the world's leading cricket bat willow supplier. They have been in the business for over 130 years, and their experience and advanced facilities are unparalleled.
NOT ALL WILLOW IS EQUALDid you know there are over 400 different species of willow trees (Salix genus)?
Each species and variety may have different characteristics, such as size, leaf shape, and growth habit. However, only one species has the strength, lightness, and shock-absorbing qualities, making it the perfect choice for cricket bats.
Salix alba var. caerulea, commonly known as English cricket bat willow, is the undisputed champion for crafting the highest quality cricket bats. This species is prized for its exceptional combination of strength, lightness, and shock absorption, making it ideal for bat production.
For over a century, Wrights have carefully nurtured the best strain of willow to ensure every tree they plant will produce great cricket bats. This excellent pedigree means we (B3 Cricket), and our customers can be certain they are getting the very best.
This helps us to ensure high performance, balance, durability, and PING!
THE SPECIAL WRIGHTS DRYING PROCESS
Wrights have a meticulous willow drying process. This closely guarded secret, involving a combination of air drying and precise kiln drying in their hi-tech production facility, ensures the willow clefts reach the perfect moisture content level for optimal performance and longevity. Watch the video below.
Here at B3, we have all played the game to a decent level and take pride in helping our customers find their perfect cricket bat.
We welcome your questions about bats, bat making and willow. If you are close enough to visit the factory, we will show you first hand what we do. If you live further afield, then make sure you watch the Bumble Factory Tour to understand the B3 Difference!
We hope to see you soon.
Regards
Michael & everyone at B3 Cricket.