Who Is England's Best Cricketer?

Ian Botham, crowned Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1978, is often considered to be the greatest England Cricketer. The holder of many records, as an all-rounder his average scores do not outstrip those of every other top flight player but his reputation for match winning play is legendary. It has been said that on top form Botham appeared to win matches on his own. Andrew Flintoff made his mark in August 2005 when he broke Botham's 1981 record by nine sixes at Edgbaston against Australia. This feat spanned two innings. Kevin Pietersen went on to score seven sixes in a single innings the following month, again against Australia. This clearly exceeded Botham's record of six sixes in a single innings.

Naser Hussain is the best, for his leadership qualities.