funny, old-fashioned farce that will appeal to readers who have at least some understanding of (or at least an appreciation for the absurdity of) cricket.

First published in 1939, The Amazing Test Match Crime by Adrian Alington is as timeless as a timeless Test Match. It helps to have a smattering of an understanding of the great game but it’s not essential for the narrative, humour and sumptuous characters stand the test of time and the closest of scrutiny. Simply put, this is your quintessential summer read that is guaranteed to make you smile and while away the hours gorging in summer’s favourite past time.

It’s clear to me that Adrian Adlington – who died in 1958 – had a fair knowledge of cricket. The book is loosely based on the final timeless Test match that occurred in 1939 between England and South Africa in Durban, a match that ended in a draw when England after toiling for nine days were forced to catch a boat home – a draw declared.

This is of course where similarity ends for this is a story about crime and the dastardly dealings of The Bad Men, a small group of criminals – one a master criminal – hellbent on changing the course of English history and disrupt the running of an Empire.

The humour, subtle at times, is right on the money and clearly written in a time when things were very different, a time that split Gentlemen and Players. I couldn’t help think of the 1932 Bodyline series when two nations were at odds and telegrams and meetings held at the very top of government. With a cameo from the prime minister and humorous exchanges in the Houses of Parliament there’s very little missing in this book.

Characterisation is impressive and I couldn’t help but warm to all of them, even the criminals. I don’t have a favourite, it would be unfair to do so for they are all equally moreish and they all add a little something to the story.

Absolutely wonderful book that had me smiling from the very first page until the last ball. Highly recommended.