Botham, Ian (1955-…), a British cricketer , became one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the game. His powerful, often spectacular batting, his aggressive, fast medium swing bowling, and his brilliant fielding made him popular with spectators. Botham began his career with Somerset in 1974, where he formed a powerful batting pair with West Indian star Sir Viv Richards. From 1987 to 1991, Botham played for Worcestershire, and in 1991 he joined Durham.
Botham’s Test career began in 1977. He was the first player to score 3,000 runs and take 300 wickets in Test matches. He was also the first cricketer to score a century and take 10 wickets in a single Test match. He achieved this feat against India in 1980. Botham’s highest Test score was 208, against India in 1982. His best bowling performance in Test cricket was against Pakistan in 1978, when he took 8 wickets for 34 runs. Botham captained England in 12 Tests in 1980 and 1981. He retired from cricket in 1993.
Ian Terence Botham was born on Nov. 24, 1955, in Heswall, Cheshire, England. He was a talented athlete in his youth. Botham played professional soccer for both Yeovil Town and Scunthorpe United from 1978 to 1985. He also gained fame away from cricket for organizing long-distance charity walks to raise money for leukemia research. Queen Elizabeth II knighted Botham in 2007 for his contribution to charity.
