Tens of thousands of cricket bats made from English willow are being shipped to India each year, with manufacturers in the east of England reporting that India and Pakistan constitute most of their business. Companies in Suffolk and Essex are responsible for around 75% of the English willow grown, which thrives in the region's conditions.
JS Wright & Sons, based in Chelmsford, Essex, states that approximately 75% of its products are sent to India and Pakistan. Foskett Willows in Bromeswell, Suffolk, reports an even higher figure, with closer to 90% of its products going to these countries. Guy Foskett of Foskett Willows noted a significant increase in demand due to more people in India and Pakistan being able to afford their own cricket equipment.
Foskett Willows, a family business, produces around 40,000 bats annually and aims to increase production with new machinery. Oliver Wright of JS Wright & Sons, a fourth-generation business trading since 1894, mentioned felling approximately 12,000 trees in 2026 and plans to plant between 40,000 and 50,000 in the winter to ensure future supply. English willow trees take 15 to 20 years to reach maturity.
Landowners, including farmers and parish councils, also contribute to the supply of willow. Melton Parish Council, for example, is felling five trees planted 20 years ago and expects to receive £5,000 for them, with replacement willows to be planted.