Yes, Hunts bats do grow on trees!
Salix Caerulea to be precise. Every year they produce and supply over twenty thousand cricket bats worldwide. The shape of the cricket bat has evolved over the years from the original `hockey stick` to the modern familiar shape. There is no weight limit for a bat, in the 18th century bats of over 5lb. were in use and in the 19th.century 4lb. was a common weight. A bat inscribed J.C.1729 is kept at The Oval and is the oldest surviving bat.
CRICKET BAT GRADING.
Grade 1 plus - G1+.... the very best of English willow, often reserved for the manufacturers own Pro Players and utilised in such bats described as Limited Edition, Ultimate, SPS or Pro-Performance. Unbleached with straight even grains and absolute minimal marking or discolouration in the face.
Grade 1 - G1 .... top quality English Willow, used in such bats described as Pro, Original, Titanium, Premier or Players. Good straight grain structure and unbleached with minimal marking or discolouration in the face.
Grade 2 - G2 ... Unbleached English Willow with some irregular grain patterning and some minor blemishes and possible reddening in the blade.
Grade 3 - G3 ..... Usually unbleached English Willow with irregular grain pattern and some marking and discolouration in the blade.
Grade 4 - G4 ... English Willow usually bleached and often non oil with a covering to the face of the bat.
