This looks similar, in grading terms, to another Salix which was bought by another cbf member. He was going to send it back. If I recall correctly, most posters on the thread had the cleft at <G1 and the purchaser was seriously considering returning the bat.
It does show that we could do with a standardised grading policy. Salix selling this as G1 when it was not classed as G1 from the source.
So,if you work this through, Wrights are sending a consignment of mixed clefts, of which this one would be G2/3, Salix are then re-selling this as G1, and many others from the small sample we've seen.
Salix it appears are selling clefts they buy as G2/3 as G1.
Is this not the same as buying a pig and selling it as a prize bull?
If you look at other bat makers (just here on the forum) how many would sell this as a G1, especially at the prices Salix charge.
I know some will say it's a dig at Soulman and Salix. It's not. It's highlighting a product sold as G1 when it is clearly not.
I know some will say that it 'pings like a trampoline', but grading is on cosmetics and NOT performance.
It's more a light on the need (to protect the uninformed consumer) to introduce a standardised grading system. If you are an informed buyer then you should have the knowledge to make the decision yourself. However, for the majority, who rely on the brand for guidance, this isn't cricket.
Why not be honest and grade it correctly. Pay your tax, Barlow, grade your bats properly, Salix and others.
It's not cricket (nor is it personal).