India vs England | Ian Botham dismisses criticism over Adil Rashidâs Test inclusion
Former English cricketer Ian Botham has dismissed all the criticism over Adil Rashidâs inclusion in Englandâs Test squad for the upcoming Test series against India starting on August 1. Botham has stated the sharp reactions as âunnecessaryâ and has backed the leg-spinner to do well in the series.

Adil Rashid was picked in the home teamâs Test squad for the first Test against India despite his decision of retiring from red-ball cricket before the 2018 County season. Rashid had played his last first-class game in September (2017). Michael Vaughan termed the selection as a âridiculousâ one and âa stab in the back for county cricketâ. On the other hand,
But Botham had a different take on the whole situation. He felt that such kind of reactions was not needed and the 62-year-old backed Rashidâs abilities by mentioning his growth as a leg-spinner and his understanding of the game.
âMichaelâs reaction was pretty unnecessary. Adilâs reaction to it was not a surprise and the whole situation does not make any sense to me. I like the kid and I think he has understood the art of bowling with a set game plan,â Botham said.
Talking about the series against the Indians, Botham said he was eager to watch the contest between the Indian batsmen and the leg-spinner. He further said that Rashid would enjoy tossing up the red-ball and would have a point to prove.
âHe will toss up the ball and give it a nice flight. On the other hand, the Indians will go after him. It will be a great contest and I am looking forward to it. The pitch will assist him and he will have a point to prove,â Botham added.

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