Ian Botham, the former England cricket icon, earned over £225,000 through the sale of items from the 1981 Ashes, showcasing his remarkable career. The auction held in 2023 saw Botham parting with more than 240 prized possessions.
The memorable 1981 Ashes victory led by Botham at Edgbaston was highlighted by the sale of the red cricket ball he used to claim five wickets for one run, fetching £20,000. Additionally, a stump from the Headingley win went for £11,000, and his man of the match medal was sold for £19,000.
Botham’s heroic performance at Headingley over four decades ago, where he scored an unbeaten 149 runs and Bob Willis took eight wickets, remains a historic moment in cricket, defying the odds of 500/1 for an England win.
Various other items from Botham’s illustrious career were also auctioned, including his player of the season medal, England test blazer, Somerset cap, and a ‘baggy green’ cap gifted by Allan Border, fetching impressive sums.
The decision to sell off these cherished items was driven by Botham’s desire to downsize, according to auctioneer Tim Knight, who emphasized the significance of the 1981 Ashes memorabilia known as “Botham’s Ashes.” Botham’s legacy as one of cricket’s finest players and England’s premier all-rounder was celebrated through this auction, reflecting his enduring impact on the sport.