For our money any game that promises to convey the thrills and spills of international Test Cricket is right up there with Paint-Drying Simulator. At least it would be if such a game actually existed.

But our general disdain for the thwack of leather on willow aside, Ashes Cricket 2009 from Codemasters boasts a videogaming experience that’s as true to the real thing as possible without actually having to don starchy clothes, paint your nose white and stand out in the sun for hours on end.

Development is courtesy of Transmission Games, who handled Brian Lara 2007 on PSP. They’ve really pushed the boat on in terms of authenticity too, with official licenses from the England and Wales Cricket Board, the MCC and, of course, Cricket Australia. In addition all the players are real and look like their actual selves, ditto the kit they use/wear and the stadiums they play in – the latter including Lords and The Oval.

Gameplay-wise the action is centred on the comprehensive ‘Ashes Mode’, which comprises all five Test matches played out at their respective venues. On top of that there are One-Day Internationals, 20 over quick matches and a series of unique challenges. Local and online multiplayer matches are an option too. Pity the poor chap who gets to stand at Deep Square Leg for the duration of gameplay!

Ashes Cricket 2009 is heading to Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and PC platforms this summer, and does at least look the part. We’ll be reviewing it soon, no doubt. Meantime, where did we leave that Dulux...?