"Solid and substantial"
RRP: £280, Owzat price: £223.99, Edge: 38mm, Weight: 2lb 9oz
Crafted from super grade four English willow that has been carefully air-dried, the Gladiator is built to deliver durability and dependable performance over time.
Designed in accordance with the specifications of the world’s top players, it features the latest profile with massive 38-millimetre concave TON edges, generating impressive power while still maintaining optimum balance.
The spine runs prominently through the blade, contributing to a commanding presence at the crease and reinforcing its strong hitting credentials.
The chrome stickers give the bat a premium, modern finish, while the high-quality grip enhances both control and comfort in hand.
A large sweet spot and thoughtfully distributed weight provide solid striking potential through the middle, offering reassuring feedback on well-timed shots.
During testing, the bat felt solid and substantial, though some players found it slightly too heavy, resulting in a somewhat sluggish flow through the downswing.
The middle performed reliably without being overly pronounced, making timing an important factor in maximising output.
A few batters felt they needed to adapt their natural game slightly to get the best from it, particularly when playing across the line.
Contrastingly, others required only minor adjustments after facing a handful of deliveries, quickly appreciating the bat’s smooth pickup and stable feel through contact.
Initial impression: 7.3
Build quality: 7.8
Pick-up/feel: 7.3
Performance: 7.8
OVERALL SCORE: 7.6