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Botham: My Autobiography
A completely revised and updated edition of the bestselling autobiography of cricketing legend Ian Botham, including his first-hand insight into the 1999/2000 winter tour to South Africa.
Ian Botham’s bestselling autobiography is an intriguing cocktail of sex and drugs allegations, personal upheavals, confrontations with his peers, and remarkable achievements both on and off the field.
From his heroic deeds against the Aussies art Headingly in 1981 through to the dark clouds surrounding the court case with Imran Khan, from battling in the mud for Scunthorpe United FC to walking half the length of the country for Leukaemia Research, it’s all here in this unforgettable story of a truly larger-than-life character.
In an extra chapter for this revised edition, Botham digs deep to unravel the reasons behind the sorry state of English cricket, and provides a compulsive insight into the 1999/2000 winter tour to South Africa where England attempt to recover from a traumatic year under the new leadership of Nasser Hussain.
Ian Botham’s bestselling autobiography is an intriguing cocktail of sex and drugs allegations, personal upheavals, confrontations with his peers, and remarkable achievements both on and off the field.
From his heroic deeds against the Aussies art Headingly in 1981 through to the dark clouds surrounding the court case with Imran Khan, from battling in the mud for Scunthorpe United FC to walking half the length of the country for Leukaemia Research, it’s all here in this unforgettable story of a truly larger-than-life character.
In an extra chapter for this revised edition, Botham digs deep to unravel the reasons behind the sorry state of English cricket, and provides a compulsive insight into the 1999/2000 winter tour to South Africa where England attempt to recover from a traumatic year under the new leadership of Nasser Hussain.
560 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
13 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Ian Botham
34 books10 followersSir Ian Terence Botham is a former England Test cricketer and captain, and current cricket commentator.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 18, 2025
5.0 ⭐
GENRE - AUTOBIOGRAPHY - SPORT - CRICKET
PAGES - 400
An absolute treat of a book!! I don't know why it has been rated so so poorly on Goodreads??
Ian Terence Botham one of the cricketing greats of the 80s era and top notch allrounder the game has ever seen.
My faint memory of Botham was that of the 1992 world cup where he would open the innings as well as bowl, the famous game against Australia where he bagged a 4 fer as well as hit a brilliant 50 opening the innings is itched in my memory.
Ian Botham along with Kapil Dev, Imran Khan and Richard Hadlee were the top all-rounders of that era who would constantly compete against each other.
About the Book :- So far the best sports Autobiography I have read Botham is exceptional as a writer as well must admit. From the beginning to the end every chapter seemed to be well compiled and written brilliantly. I never at any moment felt bored or dull reading about his experience on and off the field. The chapter where he makes a comeback after being stripped off his captaincy during the 1981 Ashes at home in England gave me goosebumps reading it. Australia has always been his favourite opponent and he always found himself enjoying his cricket playing against them.
Also must mention Ian Botham has written this book to celebrate his wife Kathryn's contribution towards him and his game. He has been very blunt in accepting that he took her for granted at that time and she did well sticking with him even though he was absolutely selfish and career focused cricketer that he was which often left his wife Kathryn living a pretty stressful life. Most importantly It was heartening to see the man accept his faults and gives her due credit.
I recommend people to read this book not just with a point of view of reading a cricketer's life but also to understand that when you have a strong headed life partner by your side you are bound to outshine in whichever field you are.
Thank you ❤️🙏👍
GENRE - AUTOBIOGRAPHY - SPORT - CRICKET
PAGES - 400
An absolute treat of a book!! I don't know why it has been rated so so poorly on Goodreads??
Ian Terence Botham one of the cricketing greats of the 80s era and top notch allrounder the game has ever seen.
My faint memory of Botham was that of the 1992 world cup where he would open the innings as well as bowl, the famous game against Australia where he bagged a 4 fer as well as hit a brilliant 50 opening the innings is itched in my memory.
Ian Botham along with Kapil Dev, Imran Khan and Richard Hadlee were the top all-rounders of that era who would constantly compete against each other.
About the Book :- So far the best sports Autobiography I have read Botham is exceptional as a writer as well must admit. From the beginning to the end every chapter seemed to be well compiled and written brilliantly. I never at any moment felt bored or dull reading about his experience on and off the field. The chapter where he makes a comeback after being stripped off his captaincy during the 1981 Ashes at home in England gave me goosebumps reading it. Australia has always been his favourite opponent and he always found himself enjoying his cricket playing against them.
Also must mention Ian Botham has written this book to celebrate his wife Kathryn's contribution towards him and his game. He has been very blunt in accepting that he took her for granted at that time and she did well sticking with him even though he was absolutely selfish and career focused cricketer that he was which often left his wife Kathryn living a pretty stressful life. Most importantly It was heartening to see the man accept his faults and gives her due credit.
I recommend people to read this book not just with a point of view of reading a cricketer's life but also to understand that when you have a strong headed life partner by your side you are bound to outshine in whichever field you are.
Thank you ❤️🙏👍
September 24, 2020
Great cricketers often write boring books,e.g. the books of Don Bradman,Viv Richards and Shane Warne bored me to tears.
Ian Botham's book,however,entertained me from start to finish.I couldn't put it down,and of course,I remembered all the things,he did and said,on and off the field.
He was a controversial character,and those controversies make the book very readable.Once after a tour of Pakistan,he said that it was a place to send your mother in law,all expenses paid.
When he was dismissed in the 1992 World Cup final against Pakistan in the first over,one of the Pakistan fielders said to him,"why don't you send mother in law now ? "☺
He had his share of bar room brawls with former Aussie captain,Ian Chappell.He had his run ins and court cases with Imran Khan.
He once took drugs on a cricket tour,and was sent back.He once took great delight in deliberately running out his own captain,Geoffrey Boycott,in a Test in New Zealand !
Of particular interest is his own account of "Botham's Ashes" of 1981 when he turned things around in spectacular fashion,to script one of the most unbelievable victories in cricket history.
His Headingley hundred came when odds of 500-1 were being offered against an England victory by the local bookmakers.
Australian players Lillee and Marsh bet against their own team,and took those odds.With nothing to lose,Botham threw caution to the wind,and scored 149.(He had scored 0 and 0 in the previous Test and had been relieved of the captaincy).
He went on to play a major role in winning the next two Tests as well.It was scarcely believable,how his fortunes had turned around.
Candid and controversial opinions on fellow players,friendship with Viv Richards and all the personal controversies he landed in provide plenty of interest.
He was frequently to be found in the pages of British tabloids for his off field escapades,and one chapter is titled,"Don't tell Kath" (his wife).
Like his successes,his failures could be spectacular as well and all the low points of his career are also dealt with in detail.
A do gooder like his nemesis Imran Khan,another chapter deals with his marathon charity walks for Laukemia research.
I read this years ago,but the thought of this book still makes me smile.Need to read it again,with another of Botham's books,titled Botham's century.
Ian Botham's book,however,entertained me from start to finish.I couldn't put it down,and of course,I remembered all the things,he did and said,on and off the field.
He was a controversial character,and those controversies make the book very readable.Once after a tour of Pakistan,he said that it was a place to send your mother in law,all expenses paid.
When he was dismissed in the 1992 World Cup final against Pakistan in the first over,one of the Pakistan fielders said to him,"why don't you send mother in law now ? "☺
He had his share of bar room brawls with former Aussie captain,Ian Chappell.He had his run ins and court cases with Imran Khan.
He once took drugs on a cricket tour,and was sent back.He once took great delight in deliberately running out his own captain,Geoffrey Boycott,in a Test in New Zealand !
Of particular interest is his own account of "Botham's Ashes" of 1981 when he turned things around in spectacular fashion,to script one of the most unbelievable victories in cricket history.
His Headingley hundred came when odds of 500-1 were being offered against an England victory by the local bookmakers.
Australian players Lillee and Marsh bet against their own team,and took those odds.With nothing to lose,Botham threw caution to the wind,and scored 149.(He had scored 0 and 0 in the previous Test and had been relieved of the captaincy).
He went on to play a major role in winning the next two Tests as well.It was scarcely believable,how his fortunes had turned around.
Candid and controversial opinions on fellow players,friendship with Viv Richards and all the personal controversies he landed in provide plenty of interest.
He was frequently to be found in the pages of British tabloids for his off field escapades,and one chapter is titled,"Don't tell Kath" (his wife).
Like his successes,his failures could be spectacular as well and all the low points of his career are also dealt with in detail.
A do gooder like his nemesis Imran Khan,another chapter deals with his marathon charity walks for Laukemia research.
I read this years ago,but the thought of this book still makes me smile.Need to read it again,with another of Botham's books,titled Botham's century.
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January 8, 2016
Beefy was one of the truly great sportsman of his age. Alongside Bob Willis he captured the nation's hearts with aggressive bowling and superb batting, but most of his story concerns what he got up to off the pitch. This is one of the most truthful sporting biographies I've ever read. He's candid about his mistakes, both concerning cricket and, more often than not, concerning his off-field antics. It's a lovely insight in to a long-gone era of jazz-hat cricketers and it's an easy, calm read if you're a cricket fan.
May 24, 2021
I obviously knew of Ian Botham and some of his career exploits but this book has really opened my eye to some of the other scandals/setbacks that hampered his career over the years.
Whether it be alcohol, injuries, drugs or sex scandals Botham seems to have done or been accused of it all.
Amazing to think of that era and the stories as yo how they managed to achieve such feats as I have tried to play cricket with a hangover and it is not fun.
The book on the whole was enjoyable insight into the lesser known facts of Botham unless you were around and read the newspapers at the time.
All the footage I have seen of his performances and the stories in this book still puts him on a pedestal as a great entertainer.....but I am glad I seem to have avoided the panto days.
Whether it be alcohol, injuries, drugs or sex scandals Botham seems to have done or been accused of it all.
Amazing to think of that era and the stories as yo how they managed to achieve such feats as I have tried to play cricket with a hangover and it is not fun.
The book on the whole was enjoyable insight into the lesser known facts of Botham unless you were around and read the newspapers at the time.
All the footage I have seen of his performances and the stories in this book still puts him on a pedestal as a great entertainer.....but I am glad I seem to have avoided the panto days.
January 14, 2024
Ian Botham's autobiography, "Botham: My Autobiography," provides readers with a candid and nostalgic journey through the life and career of one of cricket's most iconic figures. While the book offers a compelling look at Botham's illustrious career, it falls short in certain aspects.
One of the highlights of the autobiography is Botham's storytelling ability. His vivid descriptions and engaging anecdotes take readers back to the golden era of cricket, making them feel a part of the action on and off the field. The book's narrative is a testament to Botham's charismatic personality, and fans will appreciate the behind-the-scenes glimpses into the cricketing world.
However, the book at times lacks depth in its exploration of certain aspects of Botham's life. While cricket enthusiasts may relish the detailed accounts of memorable matches and legendary rivalries, those seeking a more profound understanding of Botham's personal challenges and growth might be left wanting. The autobiography tends to skim the surface on some personal matters, leaving unanswered questions about the man behind the cricketing hero.
Additionally, the writing style, while conversational, occasionally feels disjointed. The timeline jumps between events can be disorienting for readers unfamiliar with the intricacies of Botham's career. A more coherent structure would have enhanced the overall reading experience.
On the positive side, the inclusion of photographs throughout the book adds a visual dimension, allowing readers to connect with the moments that shaped Botham's career. The candid snapshots provide a glimpse into the camaraderie among players and the evolution of cricket over the years.
In conclusion, "Botham: My Autobiography" is a worthwhile read for cricket enthusiasts and fans of Ian Botham. It captures the essence of a cricketing legend's journey, but it falls short in delivering a comprehensive exploration of the man behind the cricketing prowess. Despite its flaws, the book serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who fondly remember Botham's contributions to the sport.
One of the highlights of the autobiography is Botham's storytelling ability. His vivid descriptions and engaging anecdotes take readers back to the golden era of cricket, making them feel a part of the action on and off the field. The book's narrative is a testament to Botham's charismatic personality, and fans will appreciate the behind-the-scenes glimpses into the cricketing world.
However, the book at times lacks depth in its exploration of certain aspects of Botham's life. While cricket enthusiasts may relish the detailed accounts of memorable matches and legendary rivalries, those seeking a more profound understanding of Botham's personal challenges and growth might be left wanting. The autobiography tends to skim the surface on some personal matters, leaving unanswered questions about the man behind the cricketing hero.
Additionally, the writing style, while conversational, occasionally feels disjointed. The timeline jumps between events can be disorienting for readers unfamiliar with the intricacies of Botham's career. A more coherent structure would have enhanced the overall reading experience.
On the positive side, the inclusion of photographs throughout the book adds a visual dimension, allowing readers to connect with the moments that shaped Botham's career. The candid snapshots provide a glimpse into the camaraderie among players and the evolution of cricket over the years.
In conclusion, "Botham: My Autobiography" is a worthwhile read for cricket enthusiasts and fans of Ian Botham. It captures the essence of a cricketing legend's journey, but it falls short in delivering a comprehensive exploration of the man behind the cricketing prowess. Despite its flaws, the book serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who fondly remember Botham's contributions to the sport.
October 8, 2011
A very enjoyable read this, from one of England's true sporting icons. Sir Ian Botham's, 2007 biography is a hard hitting straight drive through the covers that tells the story of his on and off field exploits. 'Beafy' set standards as an English cricket 'all-rounder' for almost twenty years, played over one hundred test matches, finally making over 3,000 runs and taking over 300 wickets. Forever will be remembered for the miracle Ashes performances in 1981. Certainly by me! I was there at Old Trafford to see the series won.
Off the field, Botham tells plenty of behind the scenes truths concerning the game at it's highest levels, particularly the 'has beens' and 'never weres' of the TCCB. His accounts of the press pack and their hounding only confirm my own pride in never having spent a single penny on the purchase of a gutter rag. Finally, mention must be made of the fact that this man has raised over £5 million for Leukaemia Research with his extraordinary charity walks. Certainly, a true sporting legend.
Off the field, Botham tells plenty of behind the scenes truths concerning the game at it's highest levels, particularly the 'has beens' and 'never weres' of the TCCB. His accounts of the press pack and their hounding only confirm my own pride in never having spent a single penny on the purchase of a gutter rag. Finally, mention must be made of the fact that this man has raised over £5 million for Leukaemia Research with his extraordinary charity walks. Certainly, a true sporting legend.
March 15, 2020
Great honest autobiography. Completely what I expected and as a cricket fan, not a boring page in view. 'Beefy' has his faults and owns them. He wouldn't have done what he's done without them and his stories describing them and his relationships with the likes of Joel Garner and Viv Richards make great reading.
The work he's done for Leukaemia is simply astounding. Well worth reading and here's hoping I still get to meet one of the nations true national sporting greats in a few weeks. Just hope that virus goes away...
The work he's done for Leukaemia is simply astounding. Well worth reading and here's hoping I still get to meet one of the nations true national sporting greats in a few weeks. Just hope that virus goes away...
June 10, 2025
The book was published over 30 years ago, and as a result it is probably a little dated. It was a different time those days and to his credit he reflects on his behaviour and attitudes as not being something to be proud of, and I always admire people who can admit fault. Overall the book is very honestly written and he pulls no punches with his dislike of some people! I wasn't sure if I liked him or not but it did strike me that he would not care at all if I did or didn't! A worthwhile read.
September 13, 2022
3.5 stars. I like the nostalgia of this book and the interconnectedness with the WI side through Viv Richards. This reminded me of growing up and cricket always being on the TV while I tried to work out how the game was played. You don't interrupt a west Indian father to ask the rules......
January 14, 2025
Pretty decent book, there is absolutely nothing to admire in this story as it’s told as is.
The last book a wannabe cricketer should read as it doesn’t talk about the skill development.
Just like the man it’s all about Botham.
The last book a wannabe cricketer should read as it doesn’t talk about the skill development.
Just like the man it’s all about Botham.
December 24, 2017
Interesting.
July 16, 2021
Very fun read into the Career of Beefy. I've only known of him as a comentator. So I never knew there was so much scandal that used to follow him round as a player.
November 16, 2021
did not expect his autobio to be interesting like his real life. He has given excellent snippets on his friends like viv rich...
May 14, 2025
Interesting and candid insight into the life of a genuine English sporting hero.
I enjoyed reading about the pressure to take part in rebel tours to South Africa and the repercussions of doing so.
I enjoyed reading about the pressure to take part in rebel tours to South Africa and the repercussions of doing so.
January 15, 2026
Wanted to like this so much. Has its moments
January 31, 2020
Really a wonderful and honest autobiography by great Ian Botham. Really a page turner of a biography, totally honest acknowledging his mistakes and pointing out other's mistakes as well. Only problem would be little boredom and slowness during certain pages. But none the less I surely love this book well done Botham.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
February 18, 2011
Ian Botham was my idol. Beefy had a gung ho attitude on the cricket field. Don't get me wrong he was a very talented cricketer and took no nonsense from anyone espcially from the Aussies and he makes no bones about it in this book. It is fascinating to read his account about losing the captaincy to Brealey in the famous Ashes series of 1981 and how Brealey motivated him to almost single handley defeat the Aussies in the remaining games (yes I know Willis was instrumental in demolishing the old foe as well). This book is written in the style you would come to expect from the greatest all rounder of the modern game (especially his meeting with Ian Chappell in a bar in Aus). Beefy says it as he saw it.
September 15, 2008
I loved the swashbuckling attitude that Botham bought to the game. He had an air of freshness about him at a time when many in the cricketing establishment were a bunch of old farts.
This book takes you not only through his sporting development, but also reveals to you the "human" side of his character.
This book takes you not only through his sporting development, but also reveals to you the "human" side of his character.
November 4, 2011
Ian Bothams cavalier and Devil-May-Care attitude on the field also shows in this book. Botham shys away from nothing in this book, no topic or controversy is off limits and Beefy calls it as he sees it. While not everyone might not agree with him, all cricket lovers should find this book highly enjoyable.
April 22, 2019
I picked this book up again recently... some 20+ years after first reading it.
Beefy was an icon... but the book has not aged well.
Some things are best left to memory.
Beefy was an icon... but the book has not aged well.
Some things are best left to memory.
July 25, 2011
very candid
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews