Photographic Memory

Beefy has a ciggy

Adrian Murrell on the poignancy of a post-match fag

04-Jan-2010
Ian Botham enjoys a cigarette after the Headingley win, England v Australia, 3rd Test, Headingley, July 21, 1981

Getty Images

Adrian Murrell: "In 20-odd years of covering international cricket, this picture means the most to me. It was taken after what I think is the greatest Test match turnaround in history, when England defeated Australia at Headingley in July, 1981. The obvious image would have been an action picture of the swashbuckling Ian Botham hitting fours and sixes to all parts of the ground. However, the quieter moment with him in the dressing room smoking a cigar while reflecting on his momentous achievement is far more poignant. This is one of the reasons why it has been used extensively in books, magazines and newspapers." Photograph by Getty Images

Adrian Murrell is a photographer for Getty Images