'The Stick'

No shoulders? No matter. 'The Stick' is a cricket bat that can do some serious damage to any bowlers' figures.

Attempting to take cricket bats to the next level is much like trying to reinvent the wheel - it's almost impossible to stray too far from the original design. However the desire to discover something new has led to bat companies taking chances. Some have scooped bits out, others have added bits in. We've seen new-look handles and toes of a similar size to Big Foot's. Many moons ago New Zealand all-rounder Lance Cairns (father of Chris) used a weapon known as the "Excalibur", a bat which had the shoulders shaved down much lower than the more conventional models. Now Willostix have made their own version called 'The Stick', a rather funky looking piece of wood made by a company who "refuse to become predictable". Such a philosophy is brave in these modern times, but is not simply a gimmick to sell. Willostix boast about being the first company to create a full set of tailor-made ladies clothing in ladies sizes, while they don't use any international star to bolster their image. Instead the Kent-based firm seem a breath of fresh air, a group that is keen to focus on the developing player, rather than those already at the top. As if that wasn't enough, they also like to hold their meetings in village pubs (my CV is already in the post). As for 'The Stick' itself - well don't let the lack of wood fool you. The fact that the shoulders are missing means an even larger middle and, with the benefit of a nice, light pick-up, the piece of Grade 1 English willow is perfect for the aggressive shot-maker that is inside every club cricketer. Designed for players that predominantly hit straight, 'The Stick' can still cope admirably with the short ball (and let's face it, how many of us face a nasty fasty capable of getting it up around our ears on a Saturday afternoon anyway?). Never mind a sweet spot, 'The Stick' simply had a massive middle that meant even if not quite to the pitch of every delivery, the ball still seemed to come off the bat superbly. Willostix are also bringing out the 'Classic Stick' - unique in itself as it has laser-printed artwork into the face of a bat - and the 'Big Stick', which is more than just something to throw for your pet dog to fetch back. So, perhaps rather than going with the flow this year when it comes to buying a cricket bat, you should think outside the norm.

Locker Room rating: 4.5/5