WHEN GripGrip cricket tape was first made in Wivenhoe two years ago, its inventors didn’t envisage it being used by batsmen in the World Cup final.

But that’s exactly what is going to happen. The thin, stretchy, rubber tape is used at the top and bottom of the bat handle to stop the grip moving.

Now the tape, distributed by Kookaburra, is being used by several New Zealand batsmen, including Grant Elliott, who on Tuesday hit the winning runs to seal a four-wicket win and an unbeaten 84 in the semi-finals.

Another satisfied customer, New Zealand opener Martin Guptill scored an unbeaten 237 in the quarter final against the West Indies. New Zealand will play the winner of Australia or India in the final this weekend.

Ben Stephens, who has worked with partner Rob Arthur and inventor Mike Trim on the product, said: “I was watching the semi-final and it gave me goosebumps knowing Elliott was using GripGrip when he hit the winning runs.

"To think professionals who are known all over the world are using our product is pretty awesome.”

Mr Stephens, 28, of Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, the former captain of Colchester and East Essex Cricket Club, said: “GripGrip hasn’t made it just yet. We have still got a long way to go, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t promising.”

The tape is also being used closer to home by Essex cricketers Graham Napier, Tom Westley and big-hitter Jesse Ryder