5403 - Ian Botham – 1981 signed Ashes presentation

Ian Botham – 1981 signed Ashes presentation

Item Number:  5403

This stunning presentation celebrates arguably the greatest all-rounder of all time, Sir Ian Botham, and also the historic 1981 Ashes series.

It displays the now famous A3 photo of Sir Ian Botham smoking a cigar just before he went out to bat the Aussies out of the game! This central photo is personally signed by Botham and you will receive a photo of him signing.

In addition there are four smaller photos surrounding this photo depicting key men from the series. Two of Botham in typical swashbuckling action, the inspirational captain, Mike Brearley and the other hero, Bob Willis.

It is presented in a black surround, with two bottom mounts, offset with a small gap against a top mount, giving a wonderful 3D effect, and measures in at an impressive 81cm x 71cm.

The plaque displays the following text:-

Botham’s Ashes - 1981- England won the series 3-1 - This series is widely regarded as one of the most entertaining ever. With England 1–0 down after two Tests, the inspirational Mike Brearley was reinstated as England captain before the Headingley Test, replacing the out of form Botham. A galvanised Botham took 6 for 95 in Australia's first innings and scored 50, but Australia scored 401 and bowled England out for 174, thus forcing the follow-on. Botham came in with England on 105 for 5 and scored an outstanding 149 not out to set Australia a target of 130. They reached 56 for 1, seemingly well set, before Willis bowled a superb spell of 8 for 43 to dismiss them for 111. England became only the second team in history to win a match after following-on. The fourth Test was a similarly inspired comeback win for England with Botham taking five for 11. England went on to win the fifth Test to retain the Ashes including another century for Botham. The 6th Test was drawn.

This is a magnificent and highly collectable item of Ashes and Sir Ian Botham signed memorabilia.