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Supersoft have tried to do quite a lot with this program, an accurate simulation of a test match between England and Australia with both an 'arcade' mode and a simulation mode - but more of this later.

The game starts up with the usual options for one or two players and then allows you to edit the teams - change the name, players, etc, and then the two players can pick their favourite XI from the squad presented. The fielding team then select the wicket keeper, first slip, and the first two bowlers.

Then the game starts to play, and it is here that the difference between 'arcade' and simulation comes in. In arcade mode the bowler will select on which side of the batsman the ball will be aimed, and then 'wiggle' his joystick like a maniac in true 'sportsgame' fashion. The batsman on the other hand has to watch the ball carefully and press fire to time his hit. These two actions will dictate the type of ball and its quality and the way the batsman will strike the ball. Mistiming is likely to get him out.

This sequence is done entirely in graphical animation with large moving objects and some great sequences when the ball is caught and the fielder throws it up in the air again, and when the wicket gets hit it is smashed to bits with the balls flying.

This section if played over three screens. A close up of the bowler/batsman area. And two areas from slightly further away to their left and right.

'Simulation' mode is only slightly different in that the joystick movements dictate the tactics that the players use rather than their actual movements.

After each over, a score card is shown with batting/bowling averages in a similar manner to the way that statistics are presented on TV. The fielding team also has the option to change bowler and the batting team (if in the second innings of a limited overs game) get shown their batting target.

Options for a different type of limited overs games and a full blown two innings match are supported.

The game as a whole is very enjoyable - as a game. However, its accuracy as a cricket simulation is a bit in doubt; some players seem too good, whilst others have no effect on the game at all. Ian Botham - for instance - bowled four wickets in one over when I was playing in two player mode - and it wasn't his fault as O'Donnell did exactly the same thing to me when the roles were reversed.

A good game, but it would probably make W.G. Grace spin in his grave.