Ian Botham earned over £225,000 by auctioning off his valuable collection from the 1981 Ashes series. The legendary former England cricket player sold more than 240 items from his distinguished career at a 2023 auction.
As England aims for a comeback in the current Ashes series, fans look back to Botham’s iconic Ashes victory with the team over four decades ago. Among the items sold at the Long Room in KIA Oval were the red cricket ball that Botham used to take five wickets for one run at Edgbaston, fetching £20,000. Additionally, a stump from the Headingley win sold for £11,000, and his man of the match medal was purchased for £19,000.
The memorable Headingley win marked a pivotal moment for England in 1981, with Botham’s outstanding performance leading to an improbable victory. Botham’s heroic 149 not out set up a target of 130 for the visitors, with Bob Willis contributing eight wickets to secure one of cricket’s greatest comebacks.
Botham’s personal collection included items like a stump marked ‘Headingley 81,’ which he sold for £7,000, along with his player of the season medal, England test blazer, and Somerset cap. Additionally, he auctioned off a ‘baggy green’ cap gifted by former Australian captain Allan Border for £13,000.
The sale also featured Botham’s England blue day one top from the 1992 World Cup and his BBC SPOTY Lifetime award, fetching £11,000 and £3,600 respectively. The decision to sell the collection was driven by Botham’s desire to downsize, as confirmed by auctioneer Tim Knight of Knight’s Auctioneers in Norwich, Norfolk.
Knight emphasized the significance of Botham’s legacy in cricket, particularly his remarkable contributions to the 1981 Ashes series. Botham’s reputation as one of cricket’s greatest players and England’s premier all-rounder was highlighted during the auction, showcasing the enduring impact of his sporting achievements.