GM Rival 404 Cricket Bat (Short Handle)

If you want to dominate the crease this season, the all-new GM Rival 404 Bat is built to deliver. Now stocking at Khatri Sports, London’s home for serious cricket gear, this short handle GM Rival 404 Cricket Bat is crafted specifically for players who like to stand tall, look the bowler in the eye, and clear the boundary ropes with absolute confidence.

Who is this bat actually for?

The GM Rival shape is made for aggressive batters who love to play on the front foot. Because Gunn & Moore designed this with an imposing low swell and sweeping, thick contours, it provides incredible punch low down on the blade. If you are an all-round shotmaker who relies on timing and raw power to drive through the covers or loft over mid-on, you will feel the benefit from the very first swing.

Real-world performance features

This bat is packed with features that make a difference on Saturday afternoons. It is carved from premium, seasoned bleached English Willow that is selected for its strength and excellent response. The face uses a traditional L555 blade length with an F2 flat face design and a distinct Powerarc bow. This clever shape creates a massive, forgiving hitting zone while keeping the pickup remarkably light.

Down at the bottom, a deep toe profile gives the bat wonderful stability when you are digging out yorkers or playing aggressive cross-bat shots. To keep you in complete control, the handle features a treble spring Singapore cane setup wrapped in a premium Apex grip. This combination absorbs the heavy vibration from fast bowling so your hands stay steady and comfortable. Plus, it arrives with GM NOW! factory protection and a moisture-resistant ToeTek finish to keep the wood safe from damp pitches.

Product Specifications

Our advice on care and preparation

Even though the GM Rival 404 Cricket Bat comes with factory anti-scuff sheets and oil protection, we always recommend giving it a little extra love before match day. Take a high-quality bat mallet and spend a good 2 to 3 hours hand-knocking the edges and the toe. Taking this time to harden the wood properly protects your investment and ensures the ball pings beautifully off the face. If you ever notice the wood looking a bit dry down the track, a light wipe with raw linseed oil will keep it in prime condition.

Why pick up your gear from Khatri Sports London?

We do not just hand over boxes. At Khatri Sports, we physically inspect and hand-select each GM Rival 404 Bat to ensure the grain structure, overall balance, and wood density meet our strict quality standards. You are welcome to pop into our London store to feel the weight yourself, or you can order online for fast, safe delivery anywhere in the UK.

Delivery & Returns

We pack all orders securely so your gear arrives in perfect condition. We offer fast UK shipping with tracking links sent right to your inbox. If the bat does not feel quite right in your hands, we offer hassle-free returns within 14 days, provided the bat remains completely unused and in its original wrap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GM Rival 404 Cricket Bat ready for a match straight out of the box?

Not quite. The factory preparation helps shield the wood, but you still need to knock it in by hand. Spending time working on the edges and toe with a mallet prevents cracks and helps the bat last for many seasons.

How does the low sweet spot affect my game?

A low swell simply means the thickest part of the wood sits lower down the blade. This is perfect for English wickets where the bounce stays a bit lower, giving you ultimate power for drives, punches, and aggressive front-foot shots.

What size is the Short Handle (SH) version?

The Short Handle is the absolute standard size for adult cricketers. It features a 295mm handle length and fits most players who are 5ft 9in to 6ft 2in tall.

Can I try the bat before I buy it online?

We would love to show it to you! Come by the Khatri Sports shop in London anytime. You can pick up a few different weights, test the balance for yourself, and make sure you walk away with the exact bat that suits your game.