Head on

Sir Ian Botham started his first-class career in 1974 with Somerset, leaving in protest at the sacking of his friend Viv Richards. He then played for Worcester (1986-91), Queensland (1988) and Durham (1992-3). He made his debut for England in 1977 and played 102 tests, including 12 as captain in 1980-81. Since retiring as a player, he has become a cricket broadcaster for Sky Sports and has set out on a number of long-distance fundraising charity walks. He has raised more than GBP5,000,000 for Leukaemia Research and was Knighted in recognition of his good work in 2007. When not touring the world commentating, he lives with his wife Kath in Yorkshire.

Widely regarded as one of cricket's greatest all-rounders, Lord Ian Botham OBE clocked up 5,200 Test runs, 383 Test wickets (a former world record), and 14 centuries over a 15-year England career. He was knighted in 2007 for services to charity and sport, and appointed a life peer in 2020. A multiple best-selling author, this is his first book in over 15 years. He lives in North Yorkshire with his wife, Kath.