A cricket bat is far more than a piece of willow. It becomes an extension of a batter’s hands, influencing everything from soft defensive shots to powerful sixes over the boundary. The right bat can elevate confidence, timing, and consistency at the crease.
That’s why cricketers across India from street cricket players to serious club and competitive athletes spend so much time choosing the right bat. Among all available options, three names dominate conversations year after year: MRF, SG, and DSC.
This detailed 2025 buying guide explains everything you need to know before choosing between MRF, SG, and DSC from willow types and performance differences to pricing, player suitability, and value recommendations.
Understanding Cricket Bat Types: English Willow vs Kashmir Willow
Every cricket bat starts with the willow used to make it. The two most common options are English Willow and Kashmir Willow, and this choice directly affects performance, durability, and price.
Choosing the right willow impacts power, timing, and stroke play. Professional and competitive batters often prefer English Willow, while beginners and casual players usually start with Kashmir Willow.
Key Differences Between English Willow and Kashmir Willow
| Feature | English Willow | Kashmir Willow |
| Origin | England (UK) | Kashmir region, India |
| Kashmir region, India | Softer with better ping and a larger sweet spot | Harder and denser with moderate ping |
| Weight | Lighter to mid-weight(approx. 1150-1250 g) | Heavier and denser (approx. 1200–1350 g) |
| Durability | Softer, needs knocking-in and oiling | More durable, low maintenance |
| Price | Premium to high-end | Budget-friendly |
| Ideal For | Serious club & professional players | Beginners & casual players. |
Which Willow Type Is Best for Beginners?
For beginners, a DSC cricket bat Kashmir willow or SG cricket bat Kashmir willow is usually the best choice. These bats are durable, affordable, and forgiving during early skill development.
Serious junior and advancing players are advised to transition to an English Willow cricket bat once they begin playing regular leather-ball cricket, where timing and bat response matter more.
MRF Cricket Bats – Power and Professional Performance
MRF (Madras Rubber Factory) is one of the most iconic names in Indian cricket. Known globally through legendary endorsements, MRF cricket bats are synonymous with power, authority, and professional-grade performance.
MRF English Willow bats are designed with large profiles, thick edges, and a commanding presence. Despite their powerful build, many models offer excellent balance and controlled pick-up.
Popular MRF Cricket Bat Models and Benefits
- MRF Genius / Grand Edition
Premium Grade 1 English Willow, thick edges, high sweet spot ideal for aggressive stroke makers. - MRF Wizard / Legend
Slightly lighter profiles, suitable for players focusing on timing and controlled power.
MRF Cricket Bat Price Range (India)
- Kashmir Willow: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
- Grade 3–4 English Willow: ₹8,000 – ₹15,000
- Grade 2 English Willow: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000
- Grade 1 / Player Edition: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000+
MRF bats are best suited for players seeking raw power, premium feel, and match dominance.
SG Cricket Bats – Trusted by Generations of Players
Founded in 1931, SG (Sanspareils Greenlands) is one of India’s most trusted cricket equipment manufacturers. SG bats are known for balanced weight distribution, consistent performance, and adaptability across formats.
Unlike power-focused designs, SG bats emphasize timing and control, making them suitable for Tests, ODIs, and T20 cricket.
SG English Willow vs SG Kashmir Willow
- SG English Willow bats (Player Edition, Test, Icon series)
Offer superior feel, refined balance, and excellent ping for advanced players. - SG Kashmir Willow bats (Strokewell, Savage Plus, Nexus series)
Provide durability and value, making them ideal for school and club cricket.
Ideal Player Profile for SG Bats
- Technique-oriented batters
- All-format players
- Club and league cricketers
- Players seeking long-term reliability
SG Cricket Bat Price Range
- Kashmir Willow: ₹2,500 – ₹6,000
- English Willow: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000
DSC Cricket Bats – Innovation and Value for Money
DSC (Deluxe Sports Company) is a relatively newer brand but has quickly gained popularity due to its focus on lightweight design and affordability.
DSC bats feature modern shaping with concave backs, helping redistribute weight toward the edges and sweet spot. This results in excellent pick-up and easy stroke play.
DSC English Willow and Kashmir Willow Options
- DSC English Willow bats (Grade 2–3)
Lightweight with large edges, ideal for intermediate players. - DSC Kashmir Willow bats
Durable, budget-friendly, and well-suited for beginners and recreational cricket.
DSC bats are especially popular among players looking for good performance under ₹10,000.
MRF vs SG vs DSC : Comparison
| Feature | MRF | SG | DSC |
| Willow Quality | Premium English Willow | English & Kashmir | English & Kashmir |
| Bat Profile | Power-focused | Balanced | Lightweight |
| Pick-Up | Solid & strong | Even & controlled | Quick & light |
| Price Range | ₹6,000–₹40,000+ | ₹4,000–₹30,000 | ₹3,000–₹15,000 |
| Best For | Professionals & power hitters | All-round players | Beginners–Intermediate |
How to Choose the Perfect Cricket Bat for You
Step 1: Identify Your Playing Level
- Beginner: Kashmir Willow bats
- Intermediate: Mid-range English Willow
- Advanced: Grade 1–2 English Willow
Step 2: Choose the Right Willow
- Choose English Willow for match performance and better ping
- Choose Kashmir Willow for durability and budget control
Step 3: Pick the Right Weight and Handle
- Ideal beginner bat weight: 1.1–1.25 kg
- Lighter bats improve control; heavier bats offer power
- Semi-oval handles aid alignment; round handles suit bottom-hand grip
Step 4: Match the Bat to Your Playing Style
- Power hitters → MRF
- Stroke makers → SG
- Quick, modern players → DSC
FAQs
Which brand offers the best English Willow cricket bat?
MRF is widely regarded as the most premium, followed closely by SG for balance and consistency.
Are Kashmir Willow bats good for beginners?
Yes. They are affordable, durable, and ideal for early skill development.
How should a cricket bat be maintained?
Proper knocking-in, light oiling, and dry storage are essential for long bat life.
Conclusion: Which Brand Should You Pick
Choosing the right cricket bat depends on budget, playing style, and experience level.
- Choose MRF for premium power and professional feel
- Choose SG for balanced, all-format reliability
- Choose DSC for lightweight performance and affordability
The best bat is not the most expensive one it’s the one that feels right in your hands and keeps you confident at the crease.
