Going by the forum custom of not being able to resist bat purchases and after some strong word of mouth, i decided to get in touch with RS sports in india to get the cheapest english willow offering they have. I just gave them a couple of non-negotiable terms. Keep it under 1200g without too much concaving, chunky toe, and oval handle. What followed was a pleasant surprise as they gave me a complete bespoke experience by having me choose my own cleft, providing me regular updates throughout and getting my requirement down to the "T". What i have here is a beautiful bat with the following specs.
38mm edge (rounded)
65mm spine (slightly rounded face)
15mm shoulders (also rounded)
25mm on the edge of the toe
29mm on the center of the toe
108mm width
540mm blade
310mm handle (medium thickness and oval)
Zero concaving whatsoever
Dead on 42oz i.e. 2lb10oz
Mid/low sweetspot
Overall press is medium soft and it is slightly harder near the butterfly stain. Ping is really really good all over. Cost was AED 425 out of which about 125 were shipping and customs charges to the UAE. Total would be about GBP 90.
And here we go...
Will try and post a video review soon