Ian Botham generated over £225,000 through the sale of his cherished memorabilia from the 1981 Ashes series. The renowned former England cricket icon auctioned off more than 240 items from his esteemed career in 2023.
With England aiming for a strong return in the current Ashes series, fans look to draw inspiration from Botham’s historic Ashes triumph with the team four decades ago. At the auction held in the Long Room at the KIA Oval, Botham let go of significant items from his Ashes victory.
Notably, the red cricket ball used when Botham took five wickets for one run at Edgbaston fetched £20,000. Another highlight was a stump extracted by Botham after the iconic Headingley win, which sold for £11,000, along with his prized man of the match medal that went for £19,000.
The pivotal Headingley victory over 40 years ago marked a turning point for the England team, with Botham’s exceptional 149 not out setting up a target of 130 for the visitors to win, complemented by Bob Willis’ eight crucial wickets in a remarkable cricket comeback.
Additionally, items like Botham’s player of the season medal, England test blazer, Somerset cap, and a ‘baggy green’ cap gifted by former Australian captain Allan Border were auctioned off, garnering varying prices. The auction, managed by Knight’s Auctioneers of Norwich, Norfolk, was orchestrated by Botham to streamline his possessions as he sought to downsize.
Reflecting on the sale, auctioneer Tim Knight emphasized the allure of items linked to the 1981 Ashes, recognized as Botham’s Ashes. Knight noted Botham’s decision to downsize and highlighted his unparalleled cricket legacy, emphasizing his statistical prowess, on-field charisma, and unwavering determination.
