Don Bradman Cricket Bat
Don Bradman Cricket Bat
Sykes "Don Bradman" Autograph Cricket Bat
A fine Sykes, Slazenger "Don Bradman" autograph cricket bat, endorsed by one of Australia's greatest cricketers, Sir Donald George Bradman. The blade is clean and in good condition, fitted with a cord-strung grip and a triple-sprung handle.
The shoulders are embossed "Slazenger, London", while the blade features a facsimile autograph of Don Bradman alongside the wording "Sykes, Don Bradman Autograph". The blade is further stamped with two crowns and bears a faint, illegible oval retailer's stamp, adding to its period authenticity.
William Sykes was around 23 years old when he established a saddlery business in Horbury with his new wife in 1870. The enterprise proved highly successful, and within a few years Sykes expanded production to include footballs alongside other leather goods. He later began selling cricket bats and eventually moved into their manufacture.
A significant milestone for the company came when Sykes secured the endorsement of Sir Donald Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batsman in the history of cricket, lending the brand international prestige. Sykes's two sons later joined the firm, which became known as Wm. Sykes & Sons.
Around 1940, during the Second World War, Sykes merged with other sporting goods manufacturers to support the war effort. Heavy bombing in London damaged both the Slazenger and Gradidge factories, forcing production to continue at alternative sites. In response, the four leading firms-Slazenger, Sykes, Gradidge, and Ayres-combined their resources. After the war, the partnership was retained, forming the company Slazenger Sykes Gradidge and Ayres, which in its heyday operated on a global scale.
Dimensions:
1900-1949
Circa 1930's
Willow
United Kingdom
Good condition, the willow shows signs of cracking along one edge.
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