Kashmir Willow vs English Willow: Which is Better?

English and Kashmiri willows are two of the most popular varieties of wood used to produce modern cricket bats. Since the beginning of their careers, cricketers have been familiar with Willow.

These kinds of wood are typically found in the colder parts of Europe, Canada, Russia, and Kashmir, India’s northernmost state. The Salix alba willow plant is the source of willows, and for thousands of years, many cultures have used its bark as a treatment for colds, fevers, and joint troubles.

These trees can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet and grow quite quickly. Professional cricketers primarily use English willows because they produce high-quality bats with a little more sparkle. Kashmir willows are also capable of producing high-quality bats. Let’s examine the key difference between them:

The Difference Between Kashmir Willow and English Willow

1. Color

Basically, the type of soil and the weather determine the color. The English willows are a little more white than the Kashmiri ones, which are a little darker.

An expert can quickly comprehend the differences between the two thanks to this distinction. It does not, however, always work because not everyone can consistently differentiate using this rationale.

2. Grain Texture

When purchasing a cricket bat, it plays a significant role. Both Kashmiri and English Willows of good quality have more discernible and appropriate grain. The grains of some Kashmiri willows of excellent quality are superior to those of English willows of lower quality.

3. Dimension and inclination

In general, Kashmiri willows weigh more than English ones. The Kashmir willow is that way because of its higher density and moisture content. English willows are able to carry less weight.

Any type of premium willow has the exact balance a cricket player looks for in their bat. They have a vertical fiber orientation, whereas Kashmir willows have a horizontal orientation.

Must Read: What is the Weight of a Cricket Bat?

4. Durability

Since both types of willow are harvested from the same tree, there is little variation in the resilience of a Kashmir Willow and an English willow. Nearly equal probabilities apply to both varieties of willow. However, English Willow is more fragile.

Also Read: Why do Batters Change the Bat in the Middle of the Innings?

5. Longevity

English willow is more brittle and prone to breaking than Kashmir willow, especially if it is not properly broken. With good care, the lifespan of Kashmir willow can be up to five years longer than that of English willow.

6. Price

Kashmir willow bats are more expensive than English willow bats. The price of English willow bats ranges from 3,000 to 100,000 Indian rupees. Kashmir willow bats cost between INR 1,000 and INR 4,000. Your age, your financial situation, and your level of cricket playing will all play a role in the decision.

So, Which Should You Buy: Kashmir Willow or English Willow?

High-grade Kashmiri willows will be slightly more affordable than English ones when the price is taken into consideration. Kids can buy them when they first begin their careers. They may use those up until a specific point in their careers. After getting the hang of it, a player can quickly convert to the latter and improve their performance. English willows are easier to handle and have a better ping off the bat due to their smaller weight.