GM Galaxy Signature Cricket Bat (2027)

The Gunn & Moore Galaxy Signature is a Grade 2 English willow cricket bat for club cricketers who want the feel of proper willow without paying for a top grade. It comes knocked in, which takes much of the preparation out of getting a new bat ready.

Willow grading is mostly about looks. A Grade 2 cleft may carry a few more blemishes or a slightly less even grain than the higher grades, but it's still English willow, and that's what gives a bat its response off the middle. The sweet spot sits mid to high on the blade, a profile that tends to suit players who score off the back foot and those batting on firmer, bouncier surfaces where the ball comes on to the bat.

Being knocked in doesn't mean it's ready for a hard new ball straight away. A few gentle net sessions with older balls are still sensible, letting the face settle before match use. Each bat is weighed by hand as stock arrives, so pick-up and balance can differ slightly from one to the next.

• Brand: Gunn & Moore
• Willow: English willow
• Willow grade: Grade 2
• Sweet spot: Mid to high
• Knocked in: Yes