Ian Botham, James Anderson, Stuart Broad England Ashes Australia
Sir Ian Botham. Image Courtesy: Getty Images

The former skipper of England and legendary all-rounder, Sir Ian Botham acclaimed Virat Kohli and company on a brimming win over England. Botham feels that India is building up for a good series and it will be great to watch. In his column for Sky Sports, the former skipper shud light on many issues regarding the series.

England, Ian Botham
India outclassed England in all departments, says Sir Ian Botham.
Credits: Getty Images

“As much as I love and support England, from a cricketing point of view, India winning here is really building this into a great series.”

Literally, India defeated England in all departments and in all sessions of the Test match. Botham feels that India simply outclassed England in all aspects.

“Let’s be honest, India have outplayed England in this game. They out-batted them, out-bowled them and out-fielded them.”

The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, Jos Buttler had a good stint in Indian Premier League. On that very basis, he got a chance to display his skills in Tests against Pakistan and was upto the expectations.

England vs India 2018, Virat Kohli
India captain Virat Kohli after the win at Trent Bridge. Image Courtesy: Getty Images

Ian Botham on Ishant Sharma

However, many fingers raised on him after his poor performance in the first two Tests. He slammed an excellent ton at Trent Bridge and shut the mouth of his critics. However, the former skipper feels that he had never doubt on his skills.

“One positive for England was Jos Buttler. If there was any debate to be had over whether he has what it takes to be a Test player, he put it to bed with his century on day four. Personally, I never had any doubt.”

While talking about his skills of top-order of England, Botham lauded Ishant Sharma for his active nature against left-handers.

“It was tough for the England top order again though, and Alastair Cook and Keaton Jennings continue to struggle against Ishant Sharma, who is a fantastic bowler to left-handers – he’s worked at this and developed this skill over a period of time.”

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