Sir Ian Botham tests positive for COVID-19

Amidst the string of COVID-19 cases in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22, former England all-rounder Sir Ian Botham, who is a part of the Channel 7 coverage team for the series, has seemingly tested positive for COVID-19.

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This news was apparently confirmed by commentator David Gower, who even went on to joke about his friend and said that the legendary all-rounder is good at shaking things off. He cheekily said that Botham would see it off with a few bottles of red.

"He's good at shaking things off, hip replacements... normally it's a hangover. He'll see it off with a few bottles of red," said David Gower, as quoted by Daily Mail. It is to be noted that the 66-year-old had tested positive earlier in 2020 as well.

Moreover, during the second Ashes Test at MCG, a number of crew members of the coverage team of Channel 7 had tested positive. Presenter Mel McLaughlin was even tested positive despite being double-vaccinated.

The COVID-19 is wreaking havoc in Australia. The likes of Travis Head, match referee David Boon and several other Ashes bound people have tested positive recently. In the Big Bash League (BBL) as well, more than a dozen players across various teams have tested positive for the virus, forcing a change in the schedule.

Meanwhile, Australia have strengthened their grip on the fourth Test. They have posted a mammoth total of 416-8 in their first inning.