At the back end of a difficult year I thought I would treat myself to something special. The Oxfordshire bats I had seen on this forum had impressed me so I got in touch with Mark to discuss what I wanted.
I went for Screaming Cat series1 profile but with the Oxfordshire touch. The only non-negotiables were a curved toe, an oval handle and being within my weight range, 2lb9-2lb11.
Had a choice of clefts and again thought I'd treat myself to a Pro Grade. This is unusual for me as I am definitely more about performance but was assured this was not lacking in that department. And it was certainly a gorgeous piece of wood.
Had plenty of pics along the way from Mark and was very impressed with the timescale. He even forwarded live action shots during the Christmas period when I had long shut up shop and was in front of the fire!
As you can see, its a beautiful bat. The first thing I will say is that the finishing is next level. Best I have ever seen on a cricket bat by far and probably better than most furniture sold in the UK. Almost felt guilty when i started smashing it with a mallet.
The shape I am very happy with, lovely high spine which runs right down to the toe. Plenty of meat where its required and feels strong right up the blade to the shoulders. The toe is just as I wanted, love a curvy toe.
The handle is perfect, medium oval. It felt great in the hands as soon as i picked it up into my backlift. I would go as far to say its the best shaped handle Ive had since a Newbery samurai I had 2nd hand over a decade ago. Very nice.
The weight is on the upper limit of my range but as I said picks up so well and the balance is superb. Really think the handle can make a huge difference to pick up weights.
Classy stickers aswell - subtle but enough going on not to be dull. Very nice
Overall delighted with both the service and the product. Now to get this one knocked in and into the bag for April!
Author
Topic: Oxfordshire Cricket Custom Bat (Read 1349 times)