GM Rival Original Cricket Bat

Premium Grade 1 English willow in GM's aggressive Rival shape — the L555 blade with a low swell, huge toe depth and PowerArc face, hand-finished in England.

Specifications

• Willow: Premium Grade 1 unbleached, seasoned English willow — mostly straight grains, slight colour and minor cosmetic blemishes
• Weight: 2lb 10oz
• Blade: Traditional L555 length
• Profile: Low swell, explosive pick-up
• Face: F2, PowerArc bow with sweeping contours
• Toe: Huge depth
• Handle: Treble spring multi-piece cane, 295mm
• Grip: Apex
• Finish: GM NOW! and ToeTek fitted as standard
• Made in: England

Who this bat suits

The low swell places mass toward the toe, making this a front-foot player's bat — it rewards driving and hitting through the line rather than nudging and accumulating. The huge toe depth and traditional L555 blade give it a big, imposing presence at the crease.

At a fixed 2lb 10oz this is a substantial bat that wants a strong player behind it. Grade 1 willow is the softest and most responsive available, which means it performs best once properly bedded in and rewards a player who looks after it.

Knocking-in

The GM NOW! finish means no oiling is required, but this bat is supplied raw and needs knocking-in before it faces a hard ball. Grade 1 willow needs it most — the fibres must be compressed gradually, typically six to eight hours across several sessions, and skipping it is the usual reason a bat cracks in its first season. It is not covered by warranty.

Our Houston workshop will prepare it before dispatch. Add Pro Full Knocking, 4–6 day turnaround. The ToeTek toe guard is already fitted.

More on grades, sweet spot and preparation in our cricket bat buying guide.

Shipping and fitting

Ships across the USA, free on orders over $200. We hold limited stock of this one. Call the store or message us on WhatsApp to talk through weight and pick-up before you buy.