Adidas Libro Elite

The adidas Libro Elite is the weapon of choice of Stuart Broad and it is not hard to see why he will be using it in Australia.

England head into their defence of the Ashes with a trio of stars wielding adidas-branded willow. The adidas Libro Elite is the weapon of choice of Stuart Broad and it is not hard to see why the talented all-rounder will be using it to tame the Aussies this winter. Adidas' cricket range has been developed with the mantra of 'listen, test, modify' to create equipment that performs well on the field but also remains true to the traditions of the game. The Libro lives up to those ideals and features a classic profile offering a long middle and a light pick up. The balance and feel also benefit from an oval nine cane handle which is comfortable although my preference would be for a thicker grip. Made from grade 1 English willow, the bat handled very well during testing and excelled during front-foot play, allowing for handsome driving. A generous middle means even those booming off drives that might not quite hit the sweet-spot still crunch through the covers. It is no slouch off the back foot either, its balance allowing the user to punch the ball through the off side. Cutting and pulling was not quite so easy but if your preference is for forcing the pace off the front foot then you'll be delighted with this particular willow. The Libro certainly looks the part with its distinctive unique three-stripe grip and toe guard to reduce wear and minimise moisture uptake. Should Broad prosper this winter then expect to see the distinctive blue markings at a cricket ground near you next summer.

Locker Room rating: 4.5/5