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Ian Botham calls Ben Stokes a 'stupid boy' amid ongoing feud

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 11, 2026, 6:34 AM

Last updated Oct 11, 2026

Ian Botham calls Ben Stokes a 'stupid boy' amid ongoing feud

Summary

Ian Botham has reignited his feud with Ben Stokes, labeling him a "stupid boy" and a "has-been" following criticism of England’s Ashes preparations ahead of the series in Australia. Botham expressed discontent over the team’s lack of practice matches and their trip to Noosa after early defeats. Stokes defended the modern demands of the sport and countered Botham's remarks online, suggesting there's merit to current practices. The public dispute between the two former England all-rounders highlights ongoing tensions relating to differing views on team preparations and player retirements.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Botham criticized Stokes for Ashes preparations in Australia.
•Stokes defended modern cricket's demands in response.
•Botham's remarks included commentary on the team's trip to Noosa.
•The feud between Botham and Stokes has extended over the past year.
•Botham's latest comments occurred during promotions for his new book.

Latest Updates

6:34 AMYahoo Sports — 'Stupid boy': England cricket legend Ian Botham reignites feud with Ben Stokes

What they're saying

"
England legend Ian Botham has reignited his feud with Ben Stokes, calling him a "stupid boy" and a "has-been" over England’s Ashes preparations and retirement. Botham criticised the team’s lack of practice matches and trip to Noosa after defeats. Stokes defended modern cricket’s demands and hit back online, saying, "it's better to be a has-been than a never-been."
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

England Cricket