Ben Stokes must first become a world-class all-rounder before warranting comparisons with Ian Botham, according to former England captain Allan Lamb.
Durhams Stokes has become a key player for England in all three formats since making his international debut seven years ago.
The 27-year-old has scored nine centuries and taken almost 200 wickets for England, leading to comparisons with former all-rounder Botham.
But Lamb, one of Englands best batsmen during the 1980s, says Stokes still has to improve to be judged alongside the legendary Botham.
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Ben is a great player, but still has to do a lot more to be put in the category of Botham, Lamb told ESPNcricinfo.
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I think when Stokes is firing, England do well. It is very similar to the heyday of Botham, when he got wickets and runs, England were winning. And the same goes for Stokes.
But you cant rely on Stokes to get all the wickets and all the runs – everyone has to chip in. I wouldnt put him right up there with the worlds best ever all-rounders yet.
Stokes missed a number of matches for England after being charged with affray following a fight on the streets of Bristol.
The all-rounder was cleared of any crime but later charged by the ECB with bringing the game into disrepute.
And Lamb added: Ben probably flips too quickly, especially if he has had a drink. Somebody might say something to him and he would throw the toys out the pram.
Nowadays, its difficult for them – social media and cameras all over the place. But they are paid to do their job – and they have to behave. There are no excuses anymore.
After helping England beat India and Sri Lanka in recent months, Stokes will hope to play a part in a successful trip to the Caribbean in the new year.
More: Cricket
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Ben Stokes must first become a world-class all-rounder before warranting comparisons with Ian Botham, according to former England captain Allan Lamb.
Durhams Stokes has become a key player for England in all three formats since making his international debut seven years ago.
The 27-year-old has scored nine centuries and taken almost 200 wickets for England, leading to comparisons with former all-rounder Botham.
But Lamb, one of Englands best batsmen during the 1980s, says Stokes still has to improve to be judged alongside the legendary Botham.
More: Cricket
Ben is a great player, but still has to do a lot more to be put in the category of Botham, Lamb told ESPNcricinfo.
Advertisement Advertisement
I think when Stokes is firing, England do well. It is very similar to the heyday of Botham, when he got wickets and runs, England were winning. And the same goes for Stokes.
But you cant rely on Stokes to get all the wickets and all the runs – everyone has to chip in. I wouldnt put him right up there with the worlds best ever all-rounders yet.
Stokes missed a number of matches for England after being charged with affray following a fight on the streets of Bristol.
The all-rounder was cleared of any crime but later charged by the ECB with bringing the game into disrepute.
And Lamb added: Ben probably flips too quickly, especially if he has had a drink. Somebody might say something to him and he would throw the toys out the pram.
Nowadays, its difficult for them – social media and cameras all over the place. But they are paid to do their job – and they have to behave. There are no excuses anymore.
After helping England beat India and Sri Lanka in recent months, Stokes will hope to play a part in a successful trip to the Caribbean in the new year.
More: Cricket
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