#OTD in 1986: Sir Ian Botham became the then highest wicket-taker in Test cricket

Ian Botham makes a comeback after 63 days to create a world record (PC: Twitter)

On this day, thirty-six years ago, Sir Ian Botham became the then highest wicket-taker in the red-ball format at The Oval. The occasion was the last Test fixture of the home series against New Zealand. 

It was a comeback game for Botham, who was banned for 63 days by the Test and Country Cricket Board (TCCB) for using Cannabis. Ahead of this game, he was just two wickets away from creating a world record. 

Botham creates history 

In overcast conditions, England opted to field first. With 17 for no loss, the Kiwis had a cautious start against the lead pacers. This was when Botham was brought into the attack by the skipper Mike Gatting. On his first delivery, the skilful all-rounder made Bruce Edgar holed out to Graham Gooch at second slip. 

Ian Botham celebrating his 356th Test wicket (PC: Twitter)

A couple of overs later, Botham trapped Jeff Crowe plumb LBW to take his 356th Test wicket and scripted history by beating Dennis Lillee's record. 

New Zealand were dismissed for a total of 287, with top contribution of 119 from John Wright. 

England dominate game proceedings

In response, opener Gooch displayed resilience to hit 32 off 67 deliveries. Then, David Gower (131) and Gatting (121) were flawless to add 223 runs for the third wicket to help the team in getting past New Zealand's score. 

Botham delivered a brilliant knock of 59* off 36 balls, with eight fours and two sixes, and England declared on 388/5 taking a lead of 101 runs. 

The match ended in a draw, with no plausible chances of getting a result. New Zealand secured a 1-0 series victory. 

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