Ian Botham calls ex-Pakistan captain Imran Khan more 'charismatic' than Kapil Dev

Former England all-rounder Ian Botham is widely regarded as one of greatest all-rounders to have ever graced game. An aggressive right-handed batsman, Botham scored 7,313 runs across 102 Tests and 116 ODIs and also bagged 528 wickets during his 15-year international journey. During his playing days, he was part of famous ‘all-rounder quartet’ which also included Richard Hadlee and 1983 and 1992 World Cup-winning captains Kapil Dev and Imran Khan respectively.

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Ian Botham praises ex-Pakistan captain Imran Khan

Ian Botham was recently involved in an online chat session with Playwrite Foundation. In session, esteemed cricketer revealed that it was a “privilege” for him to play alongside legendary fellow all-rounders like Kapil Dev, Imran Khan and Richard Hadlee. He believes that international cricket has never witnessed that many quality all-rounders rubbing shoulders against each or during same era. Botham also described competitive nature among those cricketers and said that he used to have a “great rivalry” with m during his playing days.

In interview, 64-year old also said that he has t met Imran Khan for a long time. Khan, who led Pakistan to victory at 1992 World Cup in Australia, is currently Prime Minister of Pakistan. Ian Botham described Imran Khan as “most charismatic” all-rounder out of quartet.

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Ian Botham on Kapil Dev and Ben Stokes

Ian Botham also spoke about former Indian captain Kapil Dev and England’s 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes in high regard. 102-Test veteran said that he cant see anyone in present generation doing what Kapil Dev used to do during his playing days. He believes workload on all-rounders is double than ors and it takes a toll on ir bodies. Botham cited example of Kapil Dev batting in middle order and bowling on difficult Indian pitches under scorching heat of Chennai and Delhi.

cricketer-turned-commentator n praised Ben Stokes and described 28-year old as “closest version” of himself. He believes that New Zealand-born England player is currently “best cricketer” in world. Ben Stokes was adjudged as ‘Player of Match’ in historic 2019 World Cup final, which saw hosts England lifting trophy for first time in history.

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Ian Botham commends Virat Kohli’s leadership

Ian Botham said that Indian skipper Virat Kohli is kind of captain who always takes game to opposition. former English all-rounder added that he would have loved to play against prolific run-scorer. Botham also stated that as a captain, Virat Kohli is right person to take Indian cricket forward in coming years.

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