Withdrawal of graphite-reinforced bat from first-class cricket to be completed by October 2006

The ICC today confirmed that the bat manufacturer Kookaburra has decided to voluntarily withdraw its graphite-reinforced bat from all first-class cricket by 1 October 2006.

Kookaburra's decision to withdraw the bat from first-class cricket and limited overs competitions played by first-class teams follows its withdrawal of the bat from international cricket earlier this month.

This earlier decision was made after the ICC advised Kookaburra that it had received an opinion from the guardian of the Laws of Cricket, Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), that the bat does not comply with Law 6.

Kookaburra's proposal has been supported by the ICC Member countries who have agreed to allow the use of the bats at levels below first-class domestic competition for the duration of the natural lifespan of the bats.

Kookaburra has also decided to end the production and distribution of graphite-reinforced bats.