Srinagar, Apr 18 : Kashmiri batmakers are overjoyed as the willow bat has made its debut in the Women’s International Cricket.

GR8 Sports India Pvt. Ltd., one of the leading manufacturers of Kashmir willow cricket bats, announced that its bats and equipment are being used by about half a dozen international cricketers of the West Indies Women’s Team against Pakistan.

Beginning today the West Indies team will play three ODI games, which is a part of the ICC Women’s Championship (IWC). The two sides will also play five- T20 matches.

“ We are proud to announce the debut of Kashmir willow bat in the Women’s international cricket today,” Managing Director of GR8 Sports, Fawzul Kabiir said. “This achievement is a testament to the relentless hard work, expertise, and craftsmanship combined with the utilization of AI-based cutting-edge technology at GR8 Sports. We have always believed in pushing boundaries and setting new standards in cricket equipment manufacturing.”

He said this milestone follows Kashmir willows impressive performance in the ICC T20 Cricket World Cups 2021, and 2022 editions, and the ODI World Cup 2023.

“During the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, a bat crafted by GR8 Sports led to the longest hit six of the tournament, showcasing the exceptional quality and performance of their products,” Kabiir said.

“The debut of our Kashmir willow bat in Women’s International Cricket not only underscores its superior performance but also serves as a myth buster in the cricketing world. It disproves the misconception that Kashmir willow bats are heavier or inferior to English willow bats, highlighting our commitment to excellence,” he added.

Kabiir said with relentless hard work and research, they have not only made Cricket bats lighter ranging from 2.4 lbs to 2.5 lbs but ensured that the ping, balance, and stroke are matchless and better than its counterpart.

He said it took them 14 years of Research and Development to craft the Kashmir Willow Wood into a professional cricket bat.

“Our relentless hard work and persistent efforts motivated us to make the breakthrough in this area. We could finally innovate a product that belongs to our indigenous industry and has a huge scope to uplift this entire industry of Kashmir, India. It will make us self-sufficient and less reliant on the English Willow imports thereby bringing an impetus to the economy of our Country,” Kabiir added.

UNI