The bowling seems idiot-simple, but in a good way. Press X to start the run-up, aim where you want the ball to land with the left stick, then hit X to stop a power bar. But by the end of the first over (that's six throws, football fans) we've found that using different buttons to stop the power bar determines the type of delivery. X performs the bowler's favoured throw, while Square and Circle swing the ball left or right and Triangle sends a fast, straight ball. No-brainer brilliance.

Halfway into our ten over innings we're discovering that taking wickets is all kinds of hard, and the bowling isn't so simple after all. Fortunately, the marker than shows where your ball will bounce changes colour when you're hitting the right area, and with some practice you begin to get a feel for making the right bowling choices. It's a neat feature, and makes Brian Lara quickly accessible.

Mmm, lovely slice of lemon cake. Right, yes, the fielders chase balls automatically, but a meter pops up to determine the quality of their throw to the wicket. Hit X at the right time and there's more chance of getting batsmen out. Same for catches - as the ball comes in you have to stop the bar. Simple. And it soon feels intuitive, keeping you involved in the action.

Batty time. Whacking balls is satisfyingly straightforward - hold the direction you want to hit the ball in and press X for an attacking shot, Square for a defensive one or Circle for a lofted strike. There's a direct feeling of control over each shot, and you soon get confident at judging deliveries - it's a snappy, responsive experience, and far better than Cricket 2005's at times punishing innings.

By now, aiming for a hole in the fielding formation has become second nature. Runs are easy to make - just press Triangle to run, X to cancel - and we've knocked up a satisfyingly high score. Bring on the hated Aussies.

Brian Lara might look cartoony, and it doesn't have Cricket 2005's official names, but in terms of rewarding gameplay we've never played a better cricket game. It's easy to pick up, but challenging enough to keep you occupied for ages. Looks like we're spending the summer indoors. Yeah, again.

Graphics 70%
Cartoony, but bright and functional.

Sound 70%
Shame about the simple commentary.

Gameplay 80%
Sold, responsive and very enjoyable.

Lifespan 80%
One innings is never enough.

Overall 80%
Getting started with Brian Lara is easy, and mastering it is hugely satisfying. This is the best cricket game on PS2.