Gray Nicolls Quantum

With the Gray Nicolls Quantum in his hands, England captain Andrew Strauss doesn't have to worry about being let down by his bat.

The last thing the England captain wants to be worrying about on this gruelling Ashes tour is his equipment, but with the Gray Nicolls Quantum by his side, Andrew Strauss can sleep easy. This is a very elegant bat, but be warned potential suitors, you must be in touch with your feminine side! The pink and black design could have a marmite effect on most people, however I am very much in the 'love' category and the haters need to lighten up. The effortless, light pick-up of the Quantum makes shots off both front and back foot possible with the minimum of effort. What was immediately noticeable when I put the bat to use against the rather docile bowling machine was that you get full value for your shots. On the rare occasion I found the middle of the bat, the ball sailed into the net and even when I didn't connect as well as I might, such is the quality of the willow, the ball still flew off at a fair rate. My favourite feature is the square toe as wood is taken out of the bottom of the bat and placed elsewhere (the middle). Not only does this add to its elegance and style it also makes you think the bat is wider than is actually is - a great confidence booster when you walk in on a nice 'green un' in the middle of May! The only slight issue with the flatter-than-usual toe is that it can lead to the bat turning in when your tapping it on the floor...something that could result in shots coming off the inside half and out onto the leg side. The half moon grip also happens to be my grip of choice, however I appreciate this, like many aspects of a bat, is measured by individual taste. So, if you're looking for a bat with the looks, the style and the power, plump for the Gray Nicolls Quantum. If it's good enough for Strauss, it's good enough for you!