It was a dream from my younger years finally realised.
Taking on the legendary Jimmy Anderson.
As my heart raced, he walked in, delivered, and completely got the better of me.
I will have another go next time.
And I can do exactly that because this is not real life but rather the Howzat batting attraction at Gravity MAX in Stratford.
Hidden just beyond the Westfield retail park, the complex provides almost any gaming experience imaginable.
Amusement arcade machines, adventure golf, and even motor racing.
Cricket has only just been introduced to the attractions over the past few weeks and as someone who loves the sport, I had to visit with a companion.
The team members could not have been more welcoming and soon had us ready to play.
Five distinct modes are on offer and we began with the T20 option.
This replicates the format faithfully, with participants alternating to face an over each.
Any number of overs can be selected (up to 20) and the challenge spans from basic to elite across five settings.
We experimented with every difficulty and the variation is evident, so we would only suggest attempting the fourth or fifth options if you take the sport seriously.
Nevertheless, there is masses of enjoyment to be found regardless of your standard.
The easier settings grant additional time to strike the ball and bats of varying dimensions and weights are available to increase or decrease the challenge to match your skill level.
Survivor throws you head-to-head against other participants in direct competition.
Not posting the highest score in an over results in losing a life.
Lights On challenges you to strike as many targets as possible within a set number of deliveries, really examining your striking precision.
One of the options lets you put the bat down and concentrate on your catching and throwing.
Catch and throw propels balls towards you – we discovered our fielding was rather poor – before releasing at a specific target to earn points.
For those desperate to prove their batting prowess, the World Cup setting provides two overs against virtual greats such as Anderson, Dale Steyn, and Shane Warne generated by the computer.
Jofra Archer sent down a 76mph delivery that I could hardly track at all!
In summary, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and there is certainly sufficient variety to occupy a full hour which is what we allocated.
The range in challenge levels and equipment means groups of any age and ability can find something appropriate.
If you were a fan of Sixes Cricket – which we had visited once before it entered administration last year – then this bears strong resemblance and you will have a fantastic time here.
Factor in a respectable selection of food and beverages plus numerous other attractions to sample, and this makes an excellent choice for the school break or an evening entertainment with pals.
Just remember to watch the ball closely!