For a South Australian cricket bat maker, a dream became reality during the recent Ashes series opener in Western Australia. Jack Konnis, the founder of JK Cricket, watched with immense pride as Test cricketer Jake Weatherald wielded one of his meticulously handmade bats on the international stage.
The Emotional Moment of a Baggy Green Debut
Konnis described the profound feeling of witnessing Weatherald, equipped with a JK Cricket bat, earn his first Test cap. The sight of the South Australian opener receiving his baggy green cap alongside his wife was a pivotal moment, not just for the player but for the craftsman behind the tool of his trade. "Seeing him get his baggy green, sitting with his wife… it was crazy," Konnis recounted, capturing the personal significance of the event that unfolded in early December 2025.
From South Australian Workshop to the Gabba
The story does not end in Perth. Buoyed by the success and exposure of the Ashes opener, Konnis has already prepared the next chapter. His latest creation, a new bespoke cricket bat, is now en route to Brisbane's Gabba ground. This move signals continued collaboration and trust between the artisan and the elite sportsman, as Weatherald prepares for the next challenges in the Test arena.
A Craftsmanship Legacy
This event highlights the niche but vital role of specialist craftsmen in modern sport. Konnis's journey from his workshop to the heart of Australian cricket's biggest rivalry underscores a dedication to traditional skill meeting peak performance. For local bat makers, having their product selected for an Ashes contest represents the ultimate endorsement of quality and feel.
The connection between JK Cricket founder Jack Konnis and Test opener Jake Weatherald showcases the important partnerships that form off the field. It is a testament to South Australian craftsmanship gaining recognition at the highest level of the game, proving that behind every great innings can lie a locally made, personalised piece of sporting artistry.
