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If you were inspired by England's victory against Australia in the Ashes series over Christmas, then here's the game for you - it's a horribly addictive cheapo from a new budget label, Alternative Software.

It's an accurate representation of our national summer game and all for under £2. OK, so the graphics aren't up to much - the display of the field is inhabited by little pin men - but the strategy element is there in full as is the little random bits of luck or misfortune which happen in all real cricket matches.

You can choose to play a one or two player game, select any one of the seventeen county squads or seven test teams, enter your own special team, play test matches, one day matches, league matches - you name it!

You can call up a detailed scoreboard, detailed analysis of batting, bowling statistics, and print out of the scoreboard or scorecard at any time on your trusty Speccy printer. Random extras, like byes, wides, etc, are included.

When batting, you can choose to run or stay at the crease - and yes, you can get run out if you're not careful. If you decide to field, you can place your men, select bowlers, etc. Just like the real thing.

Each player has a skill rating which you can alter at will.

Howzat! isn't a spectacular game - just very good value for money. It's more a strategy game than an out and out arcade thrash - but if you're into cricket then you won't want to miss this neat budget release.