“I was born and raised in Kashmir Valley, in the Anantnag District. Cricket has always been more than just a sport here; it’s an emotion that connects people across generations. Growing up, I saw the immense potential of our valley’s Kashmir willow. My father, who started a small cricket bat manufacturing unit in 1974, dedicated his life to crafting bats. I spent my childhood watching him and the local artisans shape raw willow into beautiful pieces of cricketing gear. But back then, most of the willow from Kashmir was sent out to be rebranded by others, never carrying the name or pride of our region.
When I took over the business in 2010, I was determined to change this. My dream was to make the world recognize the craftsmanship of Kashmir willow bats. It wasn’t an easy road. I had no financial backing and had to sell nearly 40 kanals of family land to invest in the business. Over the next decade, I worked alongside my brother, Mohammad Niaz ul Kabir, to build something meaningful. We upgraded our facilities, ensured compliance with international standards, and traveled extensively to learn what players and experts needed in a world-class bat.
Our breakthrough came in 2021 when GR8 Sports became the first Kashmir willow bat manufacturer to receive ICC approval. That was a proud moment, but what followed was even more special. In the same year, our bats debuted on the international stage during the T20 World Cup, used by Oman players Naseem Khushi and Bilal Khan. The next year, UAE’s Junaid Siddique hit a record-breaking 109-meter six with our bat during the 2022 T20 World Cup. Today, our bats are used by International players, both in men’s and women’s cricket from different nations and even in Legends League Cricket.
What sets our Kashmir Willow bats apart is their quality and affordability. They cost nearly one-fifth of English willow bats but offer unmatched performance. This combination has made them a preferred choice for both international and domestic players, proving that Made in India products can compete on the global stage.
Another important aspect is regarding the sustainability. Willow trees take nearly 15 years to grow, and the industry is deeply tied to the valley’s culture and economy. Recognizing the need for sustainability, we launched initiatives like planting a tree for every three bats sold. We’ve also collaborated with institutions like the CIED-IUST Foundation to promote large-scale willow sapling plantations. It’s our way of ensuring the future of this industry and supporting the livelihoods of the 1.5 lakh people who depend on it.
Today, my brother and I manage the business together, combining our skills and passion for the game. Seeing our bats in the hands of international players is more than just a business achievement—it’s a statement. It shows that Kashmir’s craftsmanship and the dreams of its people can reach every corner of the world. For me, every six hit with a GR8 bat feels like a victory for Kashmir, for India, and for the spirit of cricket.”
- Fawzul Kabiir, Founder of GR8 Sports, India’s first ICC Approved Kashmir Willow Bat Manufacturering Company