From school cricketers to international stars, B3 Cricket provides VIP treatment for all players

At B3 Cricket's factory in the heart of England, David Sharman found an operation deeply rooted in a passion for the game and a commitment to advanced bat-making that serves both professionals and amateurs alike

Young cricketers, when shopping for bats and equipment, deserve the same high-quality service that professionals receive - unfortunately, this is often not the case. However, the team at B3 Cricket prides itself on delivering an exceptional experience to every cricketer who walks through their doors, from school players to Test match stars.

That’s not just a hypothetical brag either, their high-quality bats and gear are used by renowned England players such as Tom Hartley, Freya Davies, and Josh Tongue. "Every amateur or junior player who comes to us receives the same quality willow and custom bat options as top professionals," explains owner Michael Blatherwick. "Our unique bat-making process ensures that every player, from grassroots to elite levels, can find their perfect bat."

A visit to B3's factory in Hucknall, north of Nottingham, reveals a family-run business with probably the most advanced bat making facility in the cricketing world. 

^{B3 owner Michael Blatherwick}

3 Ways to Find Your Perfect B3 Cricket Bat

B3 Cricket offers an extensive selection of bats and kit, with the "3" in "B3" representing the three different ways customers can find their ideal cricket bat:

1. Series Range: This collection features six of B3's most popular bat shapes with various middle positions. Always in stock and available in different willow grades and weights, these bats can also be custom-made within days (if they don’t have your perfect bat in stock), to meet your exact preferences.

2. Custom Bat Builder: If you can’t find something that suits within the Series Range, then B3’s Custom Bat Builder provides over 600 combinations of middle position, edge shape, spine and toe profile. Players can play with the options, visualize their designs on the B3 website and download a PDF of their final bat.

3. Bespoke Service: This is ideal for those wanting to replicate an old favourite, this service uses advanced computer-aided design (CAD) technology to map any bat shape and reproduce it in the B3 factory. "Customers often bring in cherished bats from years past, and we can recreate them exactly. We even offer Bat Mapping via Zoom, allowing us to serve customers worldwide," enthuses Gavin Corns, B3’s Production Director.

More Than Just Bats

B3 Cricket also provides a comprehensive range of accessories, including batting gloves, pads, thigh guards, wicketkeeping gear, bags, shoes, and coaching products, making it a true one-stop shop for cricket enthusiasts. Founded in 2012, B3 is now recognized as one of the world's leading makers of high-quality genuine English willow cricket bats. 

"We aimed to offer our customers exceptional choices and a personable service while creating the best bats in the world at great value," states Blatherwick. "By selling directly from our factory and not through retailers, we maintain the most advanced and consistent bat-making process, which keeps our customers coming back."

^{England's Tom Hartley is on B3's books}

The Best Genuine English Willow

With recent concerns about the shortage of English willow and counterfeits in the market, B3 assures customers they are receiving genuine products. "100% of our willow comes from JS Wrights, and we only source the top grades," guarantees Blatherwick. The team's dedication to customer satisfaction and expert craftsmanship shines throughout the B3 experience. 

Using CNC technology for precision shaping, each bat is individually pressed to maximize performance and finished by hand in their state-of-the-art factory. Every B3 bat carries a unique serial number, ensuring that once a customer finds their ideal bat, it can be precisely recreated in the future. "Our clients, from elite Test players to club cricketers, appreciate that we keep their design on record. Our precision, balance (pick up) and pressing process sets us apart and maximises performance. At the end of the we help our customers score more runs with a bat that suits them and pings!" explains Corns.

^{Freya Davies is another satisfied B3 client}

Become a B3 Ambassador

B3 is dedicated to nurturing young cricketers' potential. Their School Partner and Ambassador Programmes offer aspiring players at partner schools exclusive sponsorship discounts. For those near Nottingham, B3 invites players to book a net session at the B3 Academy, adjacent to the factory and showroom, where they can test various bats and receive expert coaching. Apply via the B3 website or email teamb@b3cricket.com

By Cricketers, For Cricketers

When you choose B3, you are working with cricket enthusiasts. Everyone at B3 has played the game and is committed to providing the best equipment to help players excel. They ensure that every player finds a bat shape, size, and weight that enhances their development. Furthermore, they collaborate with coaches to ensure the best fit.

“We are dedicated to giving the best advice, and if a customer isn't completely satisfied with their bat, we will make them a new one—no questions asked,” concludes Blatherwick.

With that level of customer service and dedication to the game, it’s no wonder some of the world’s best players keep coming back for more.

Fancy a B3 Factory Tour?

B3 welcome players, parents and coaches to visit the B3 factory to see what sets them apart as a bat maker. Alternatively, if you can’t get to Nottingham, you can do this virtually. 

Simply click here and let legendary cricket pundit, David Lloyd, take you on the Bumble B3 Factory Tour.

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