Top 3 performances of Ian Botham in international cricket

Ian Botham is considered as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders. He was a crucial component in redefining England’s cricket with his explosive batting and accurate bowling. Botham’s international career spanned 16 years in which he delivered several splendid performances across Tests and ODIs. On his 70th birthday, let us have a look at three of his best performances in international cricket.

1)  6/95 (39.2), 50 (54), 149* (148), 1/14 (7) vs Australia, 1981

The third Test of the home Ashes series in 1981 is famously known for Botham’s all-round heroics as he bagged a brilliant six-wicket haul in the first innings followed by a valiant half-century in the second. Botham, coming in at his usual No. 7 position, played one of his most composed knocks after England were asked the follow-on. He chipped in with a wicket in his seven-over spell as the Three Lions secured an 18-run win.

2) 208 off 226, 2/73 (19) vs India, 1982

Botham took apart Kapil Dev and his troops by smashing a brisk 208 off 226 against India in the third and final Test of the series in 1982. His fearless knock comprised 19 fours and four sixes. His double-ton made headlines despite the final outcome of the contest being a draw. He also picked up a couple of wickets in the match.

3) 6/58 (22.5), 114 (144), 7/48 (26) vs India, 1980

The one-off Test against India at the Wankhede Stadium in 1980 was another of Botham’s red-ball classics. His razor-sharp bowling in India’s first and second innings helped him pick up six and seven wickets, respectively. In England’s first innings, he played a solid knock to get to yet another century. England eventually won the match by 10 wickets.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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