Australia v Wales: James Botham aims to continue family success

Australia v Wales: James Botham aims to continue family success


Wales will hope Botham can make the same Melbourne impact as his famous grandfather did 38 years ago in the 1986 Boxing Day Ashes Test.

Botham’s five-wicket first-innings haul across the road at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) set England up for a successful retention of the Ashes.

Australia collapsed from 108 for three to 141 all out and England ended up winning by an innings and 14 runs in three days.

It put them 2-0 ahead in the series with one game left, meaning no way back for Australia.

“I know grandad has done some stuff on the board at the MCG,” said Botham.

“It would be nice to get myself a win out here as well.”

So what was it like growing up with a legend?

“I get asked this question a lot,” said Botham.

“It can be difficult, only if you make it difficult. I’ve always used it as a drive, especially in rugby.

“Where I am now and everything I’ve got is from him working hard, achieving and grafting.

“It’s a drive for me to do the same and create my own legacy.

“He has been there from day one. He’s been like my father at times. but never put pressure on me.

“He’s sat back, guided me, but let me get on. It’s the best advice he’s ever done.”

Was the Botham name ever a burden?

“It was more as a youngster, when you’re growing up you’d get people giving you stick,” said Botham.

“You’d react and then you’d realise, that’s what they want.

“If you don’t react and you’re not bothered – which I’m not now – it goes away.

“With what I’m doing now, it’s quietened down. It used to be the old saying ‘he’s only there because of his grandad’.

“That’s more of a drive. If someone says that, I’m going to prove you wrong.

“It’s been a rollercoaster, but a hell of an experience. I’ve learned a lot from him.”



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