MRF vs SG vs DSC – Ultimate Cricket Bat Buying Guide for 2025

The cricket bat is beyond a piece of wood it is an extension of the batsman's hands, impacting everything from the careful positioning of a late cut to the strength of a six.

For this reason, Indian cricket players of all skill levels, from gully cricket fans to elite players, are obsessed with their willow. The legacy and quality provided by the leading brands MRF cricket bat, SG cricket bat, and DSC cricket bat often determine the decision.

From the fundamental materials and willow varieties to a thorough price comparison and the best value options for your skill level, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about choosing the perfect cricket bat.

Understanding Cricket Bat Types: English Willow vs Kashmir Willow

The core of every cricket bat is the willow wood used to make it. The choice ranges between English Willow and Kashmir Willow two materials that define performance, durability, and price points across all brands.

Choosing the right willow impacts a player's power, timing, and stroke play. For instance, an ESPN Cricinfo analysis showed that Indian batsmen who scored 200+ runs in 2024 maintained strike rates above 150.

What’s the difference between English and Kashmir willow bats?

The main distinction is found in the performance, density, and grain structure. For improved stroke play, English Willow offers a larger sweet spot, superior 'ping', and is lighter and softer. Kashmir Willow is more cost-effective, harder, denser, heavier, and more resilient.

Which willow type is best for beginners?

For beginners, a DSC cricket bat Kashmir willow, or an SG cricket bat Kashmir willow is best. They are durable and cost-effective, offering an outstanding balance of sturdiness and performance for players still developing their technique.

For serious junior or advanced players, it is advisable to start with a quality DSC English willow cricket bat or MRF cricket bat English willow to get accustomed to the superior feel and performance required for leather ball cricket.

MRF Cricket Bats – Power and Professional Performance

MRF (Madras Rubber Factory) is a well-known tire company and a well-known sponsor of cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. MRF has become synonymous with professional-grade power and unmatched stroke-making ability.

Virat Kohli, one of India's greatest batsmen, once said about his MRF bat: "This bat is an extension of me on the field. It's a responsibility. MRF Genius, great things have been done with it." 

The MRF Cricket Bat English Willow range is the epitome of professional-grade gear. Because of their superior balance and premium feel, these bats feel light in the hand for a rapid pick-up, even though they have a large profile.

Popular Models and Performance Benefits

• MRF Grand Edition/Genius: These flagship bats feature Grade 1+ English Willow. They feature a large profile, thick edges, and a higher sweet spot, specifically designed for maximum power and dominating stroke play, making them perfectly suited for aggressive batsmen like Virat Kohli.

• MRF Wizard/Legend: These provide an entry point into the English willow range, focusing on a slightly lighter profile to aid stroke play and timing.

MRF Cricket Bat Price Range

MRF cricket bat price varies significantly based on willow grade and model:

• Kashmir Willow Range: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000

• Grade 3-4 English Willow: ₹8,000 – ₹15,000

• Grade 2 English Willow: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000

• Grade 1/Professional Edition: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000+

Explore the complete MRF cricket bat collection at SCS Sports.

SG Cricket Bats – Trusted by Generations of Players

Sanspareils Greenlands (SG), established in 1931, is one of India's oldest and most respected cricket equipment manufacturers. SG cricket bats are renowned for their all-round performance and exceptional balance. 

Unlike MRF's focus on power, SG cricket bat English willow features a mid-to-high sweet spot for great versatility, making them equally effective for Test match patience, ODI stroke-making, and T20 aggression, thus excelling across all formats and playing styles.

SG Cricket Bat English Willow vs SG Cricket Bat Kashmir Willow

When comparing the SG Cricket Bat English Willow vs. the SG Cricket Bat Kashmir Willow, the difference in craftsmanship remains evident across both categories. 

• English Willow bats (Test, Player Edition) offer seasoned players superior feel and 'ping' with excellent balance for sustained, long-format innings. 

• Kashmir Willow range (HP, Maxx) provides reliable consistency and power with a decent pick-up. It makes them popular and affordable options for club and school cricketers.

The ideal user profile for SG cricket bat includes:

• Classical players who value technique and stroke play

• All-format cricketers who need a balanced bat for varied conditions

• Club-level players seeking professional-quality equipment at reasonable prices

• Intermediate to advanced players looking for reliable, consistent performance 

SG cricket bats are available across a wide price spectrum, from budget-friendly Kashmir willow options (₹2,500–₹6,000) to premium English willow professional bats (₹20,000–₹30,000).

Explore the complete SG cricket bat collection at SCS Sports

DSC Cricket Bats – Innovation and Affordability

DSC (Decision Sports Company) is the newest of the three major brands, but it has rapidly carved out a significant niche by focusing on innovation and value. 

DSC cricket bats, ideal for intermediate players under ₹10,000, are engineered for lightweight comfort and excellent pick-up. Their clever design features a slightly concave back profile, which removes non-essential weight and redistributes it to the edges and the sweet spot.

DSC English Willow Cricket Bat and DSC Cricket Bat Kashmir Willow Options

• DSC English Willow Cricket Bat segment(Grade 2/3) offers intermediate players a lightweight, large-edged profile for excellent stroke play, balancing performance and price. 

• DSC Cricket Bat Kashmir Willow range is built for resilience and value, making it a reliable entry-level bat for beginners and recreational cricketers.

Discover the latest models and best deals on DSC Cricket Bats at SCS.

MRF vs SG vs DSC: Head-to-Head Comparison

To help you make an informed decision, here's a comprehensive comparison of these three leading Indian cricket bat brands:

If you’re a beginner or playing casual cricket, buy a DSC cricket bat for the best lightweight value. Choose SG cricket bats for balance and an all-around game at the club level. Invest in an MRF cricket bat English willow for raw power and a premium, professional feel.

How to Choose the Perfect Cricket Bat for You?

Selecting the ideal cricket bat involves more than just picking a brand. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to find your perfect match:

Step 1: Identify Your Playing Level

• Beginner: Focus on durability and budget. Kashmir Willow is your friend (DSC cricket bat Kashmir willow).

• Intermediate: Look for mid-range English Willow that offers a good balance of performance and value (e.g., DSC English Willow cricket bat or mid-range SG cricket bat English Willow).

• Advanced Professional/Semi-Professional: Playing at the highest levels where every run counts. Only Grade 1 or 2 English Willow will suffice. 

Step 2: Choose the Right Willow Type

Match the willow to your playing environment and dedication. Are you wondering - How do I choose between English and Kashmir willow?

Well, choose English Willow if your priority is maximum ball ping, power, and feel for competitive leather ball cricket. Choose Kashmir Willow if your priority is affordability, durability, and a heavy-duty option for practice or beginner-level play.

Step 3: Pick a Suitable Weight and Handle Type

This is a personal feel, known as the 'pick-up'. A bat should feel lighter than its actual scale weight. Bats typically range from 1.1 kg to over 1.4 kg. Lighter bats allow for quicker, controlled swings, while heavier bats generate more raw power but can slow down your bat speed and cause fatigue. 

The handle should be comfortable a semi-oval handle is common and aids in alignment, while a round handle is preferred for bottom-hand grip and power hitting.

Are you wondering what is the ideal bat weight for beginners?

Beginners should use bats weighing between 1.1 kg to 1.25 kg. This lighter weight allows for better bat control and quicker bat speed, and helps develop proper technique without straining muscles.

Step 4: Consider Your Playing Style

• Power Hitters/T20 Specialists: MRF cricket bats with thick edges and low sweet spots

• Classical Stroke Players: SG cricket bats with balanced profiles and mid-high sweet spots

• All-Rounders: SG or DSC cricket bat with versatile profiles

• Defensive/Technical Players: SG or DSC with lighter pick-up and mid sweet spots

Price Comparison and Best Value Recommendations

Understanding the price-performance relationship helps you maximize value for your investment:

Best Value Bats (Under ₹10,000)

English Willow:

• MRF Skipper/Legend JuniorRange

• SG RSD Xtreme Range

• SG Hiscore/Strokewell Range

• DSC Cynos/Krunch Range

Kashmir Willow:

• SG Thunder/Savage Plus Range

• DSC Wildfire/Tennis fire Range 

• MRK Champ Range

Premium bats above ₹20,000

• MRF Genius / Grand Le Range

• DSC Intense Speed / Krunch Range

• SG RP / Roar / KLR Range

Where to Buy: SCS Sports

For authentic SG, DSC, and MRF cricket bats with guaranteed quality, visit SCS Sports—India's trusted cricket equipment retailer. SCS Sports offers:

• 100% Authentic Products: Direct partnerships with brands

• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable staff to help you choose

• Competitive Pricing: Best deals on premium cricket equipment

• Wide Selection: Complete range from all three brands

• Quality Assurance: Every bat is checked for authenticity

Shop authentic MRF, SG, and DSC cricket bats at SCS Sports.

FAQs

1. Which brand offers the best English Willow Cricket Bat?

A: While all three offer high-quality English Willow, MRF Cricket Bat English Willow is generally considered to offer the most premium and sought-after English Willow bats (Grade 1+). SG cricket bat English willow follows closely and is renowned for its consistency and balance.

2. Are Kashmir Willow bats good for beginners?

A: Yes, Kashmir Willow bats are ideal for beginners. They are more durable, less prone to damage from mis-hits, and significantly more affordable.

3. What is the average MRF cricket bat price in India?
   

The average MRF cricket bat price in India typically ranges from ₹6,000 for their entry-level English Willow or premium Kashmir Willow models, up to ₹35,000 or more for their signature player edition, Grade 1 English Willow bats.

4. How to maintain and store a cricket bat properly?

A: To prepare the willow, a cricket bat should be properly knocked in and oiled with raw linseed oil. For storage, please keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat or moisture, and avoid leaving it standing on its toe.

Conclusion: Which Brand Should You Pick?

Choosing the right cricket bat involves balancing your personal needs across budget, playing style, and commitment level: an MRF cricket bat is the definitive choice for professionals and power-hitters. An SG cricket bat is the time-tested option for balanced all-around performance, and a DSC cricket bat is the top recommendation for beginners and intermediate players, looking for budget and lightweight options.

Ready to elevate your game? Explore the authentic collections of MRF, SG, and DSC cricket bats at SCS Sports today and find the perfect willow to elevate your game.