The MCC has announced a significant change to the Laws of Cricket that could reshape access to the game at grassroots level, allowing laminated bats to be used in open-age recreational cricket from October 2026. The move is aimed at addressing the rising cost and scarcity of English willow, which has pushed bat prices out of reach for many amateur players. David van der Walt, master craftsman behind Black Widow Manufacturing and regarded as South Africa’s foremost bat maker, speaks to Lester Kiewit about what this law change means for cricket development, affordability, and the future of bat manufacturing. He also shares insight into whether laminated bats can deliver performance without compromising the traditions and balance of the game.

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