England’s Finest Hour - signed by Ian Botham

England's second innings, third Ashes Test, Headingley in July 1981. England's lion, Ian Botham, gives the order to make a few runs on his way to scoring 149 not out during England's sensational victory. Beefy has signed 500 prints for Bigbluetube, each one personally autographed by the man himself.

Our print of Ian Botham shows his strength, determination and sheer will to win, in a stunning action shot by renowned cricket photographer, Patrick Eager. The 1981 series against Australia quickly became known as 'Botham's Ashes'. Despite losing the First Test and drawing the Second at Lords, Botham was inspirational at Headingley, tearing through the Australian team with both the bat and the ball. Never before in Test history had one player so dominated his own team and steered them to victory against the highest calibre of opposition. Botham was already a talent but his legend began at Headingley, in this very innings.

Botham's second innings saved England from a humiliating innings defeat as they followed on a daunting Australian target and he scored a fearless 149 not out, off only 148 balls. Whatever Botham did, he usually did it very, very well. A powerhouse of a batsman, a fierce bowler and an incredible fielder, Botham equalled the then-world record for Test catches at 120 when his career ended.

It was in 1981 though, that Beefy almost single-handedly rescued an otherwise lacklustre England side and inspired them to incredible feats. It is a true measure of his legacy that any all-rounder in the current England side is instantly compared to Ian Botham. Many may come close, but surely no one will eclipse Botham's achievements in the game and his position as one of the legends of sport.

Own a piece of sporting history

We have captured the genius of Ian Botham during his finest hour for England in a superb limited edition print. The 1981 Ashes Test Match at Headingley is one of the greatest moments in British sport and makes this print a 'must have' item.

Personally Signed

Each print has been personally signed by Ian Botham. He has one of the most sought after autographs in cricket, which makes this print highly collectable.

Strictly Limited Edition

Only 500 hand-numbered copies of this print will ever be released. The scarcity of this edition and Ian Botham's popularity makes early ordering essential.