Legendary England all-rounder Ian Botham says the criticism around the inclusion of spinner Adil Rashid in the home team’s squad for the first Test against India is “unnecessary”.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan dubbed it “ridiculous” and “a stab in the back for county cricket”. Another former skipper Nasser Hussian felt Rashid’s Test recall sets a dangerous precedent for county cricket.
“I don’t understand what Michael was on about, it was pretty unnecessary,” Botham said on Sky Sports.
“Adil is fed up with it and has reacted. There has been a lot of stuff out there written and I just don’t get it. I wonder if some people just do it for effect.
“I like the kid and I think he’s come to terms with the way of bowling and sorted out his game plan.”
“He does put it out there and is prepared to throw (the ball) up. The Indians will go after him but I hope he does very well. It should be an interesting contest.
