Personally, I have used a lot of kashmir bats (Indian brands) and one AS KW and like them a lot.
Kashmir bats are great value for money.
The issue is finding a good one - since they are cheaper in price they usually have cheaper handles fitted on them.
The more expensive Kashmir from Indian brands (SS) cost over Rs 1000- Rs 1500 coz they have generally better willow (than the lower priced) and a better handle <- most imp.
Kashmir is more heavier than English coz its more denser willow.
So when Pak companies like AS try to make big bats out of KW they dont last long at all.
When it comes to English willow it is debatable whether Indian bats are better or Pak ones. Both sides have some good makes and models.
in terms of Kashmir willow there is no comparison- Indian branded bats are much better. This might be partly because of the demand factor. - think most ppl in pak expect not to pay much for KW bats and want them big. So manufacturers are using cheaper handles and overdrying them to make look big like EW bats.
Most of the Pak players that I have spoken to - feel that KW bats are super cheap and not good enough. When I let them try my bats they are pleasantly surprised. one friend who had a net session with my bat was shocked when I told him it was 2.13. he felt it was much lighter and went so well.
i have had a few good KW and they have served me well- they go especially well against bowling machines. BDM make some of the best KW bats (stickers arent best) that I have ever played with. Better than some of the $400 hard pressed bats. Lots of ping and long life.
here is the golden tip- never pick a super light kashmir willow bat!
