Botham and Stokes reignite Ashes row over preparation

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 13:31 · Archive

Ian Botham has reopened his dispute with retired England captain Ben Stokes over preparation for the recent Ashes series, which England lost 4-1.

Ian Botham has reignited his dispute with recently retired England captain Ben Stokes over preparation for the recent Ashes series in Australia, which England lost 4-1 amid off-field issues including late-night drinking sessions and breached curfews.

Botham had criticised the team's lack of preparation before the tour, prompting Stokes to call him and fellow former England skipper Michael Vaughan 'has-beens'. When asked about Stokes's mid-Test resignation as captain against New Zealand in England, Botham said he stood by his original criticism. He argued that playing only two-and-a-half days of cricket before facing Australia in Perth was inadequate, particularly for slip fielders who need practice.

Stokes responded to the criticism by saying the team had put considerable thought and process into preparation over several years, not just the three weeks before the tour. He suggested that modern circumstances differed from how 'the has-beens maybe prepared in the past'. Botham was speaking at the Cheltenham Literature Festival to promote his new book, Seasons.

How it is being reported

• Botham reopens war of words with Stokes over AshesIan Botham has reopened his spat with fellow all-rounder Ben Stokes over his retirement and the recent Ashes debacle.Perth Now · 18 Oct, 13:03
• Botham reopens war of words with Stokes over AshesIan Botham has reopened his spat with fellow all-rounder Ben Stokes over his retirement and the recent Ashes debacle.The West Australian · 18 Oct, 13:03

In this story: Ian Botham · Ben Stokes · Michael Vaughan · England · Australia

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