Ian Botham's Blog, page 9

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: England needed someone to stand up.. and THREE men did

What a magnificent day and what a magnificent Test match, ending in triumph for the best team.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: England ton-machine Ian Bell isn't finished yet

Well played England and very well played Ian Bell who is now a bonafide Ashes star.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: I didn't expect England to be mauled by Lyon, but it's our turn next

Australia have kept the momentum from Old Trafford and put the squeeze on England on day one of the fourth Ashes Test .

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: What England have shown to retain the urn won't be enough to win it

England have retained the Ashes and they deserve all the plaudits that will come their way.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: Manchester rain comes to Australia's rescue

It was bound to happen sooner or later, but in Manchester the rain saved Australia.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: Well played, Aussies. Now I expect England's batsmen to cash in too

Another good day for Australia. They are allowed to play well and I thought they were excellent, with Michael Clarke leading the way once more.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: One day can make a ton of difference for Michael Clarke and Australia

It was bound to happen at some point and finally the floodgates opened: A front-line Australian batsman scored a big hundred.

Ian Botham on the Ashes: Ruthless England can't show struggling Aussies any mercy

This time next week the Ashes could be won.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: England gave the Aussies a Test cricket masterclass

Now that’s what you call a Test win.

Ian Botham's Ashes verdict: Jonny Bairstow will be having nightmares about his dismissal

Another terrific day kept me hooked all the way through – and things are pretty even.