Botham walked over 100 miles in eight days in South Africa...
Friday 18 December 2015 09:38, UK
Sir Ian Botham brought his epic eight-day charity walk across South Africa to a close in Pretoria.
Botham walked more than 100 miles over the course of the trip, with a walk to the British High Commission ending proceedings on the eighth day.
"The walks never get any easier, I can tell you that," said Botham. "They all have their highs and their lows.
"Today was warmer, and I did have a word with the deputy high commissioner and suggested that next time they invite me out, can they please use a route that is flat.
"Those last couple of miles were tough on everyone. But we got here, and certainly got a great reception.
"The whole trip has been fantastic. We've had nothing to worry about - far from it - with lots of enthusiasm throughout and people out supporting and cheering us on.
"We have seen some amazing places. This part of the world - Pretoria in particular - is steeped in history, and walking through Soweto, where the great Nelson Mandela grew up was incredible. I certainly never expected to hear 'Beefy' shouted out in Soweto.
"But the best moment of every single walk I have ever been on, is when you cross that finish line."
Botham says he has one more walk in him, in 2017 with a trip to Australia and New Zealand, but before then he is set to enjoy some well-deserved time off before covering England's series in South Africa on Sky Sports.
"My crew weren't overly happy initially but then I suggested it would be Australia and New Zealand," said Botham. "It would be rude of me miss out Australia, it has been so good to me over the years.
"We will do the major cities there, and in New Zealand. That will be the swansong.
"Now though I'm disappearing into the bush, good luck if you think you can find me there. I love it, and it gives you an even greater idea of what Africa is all about.
"As for the cricket, I know which camp I'd rather be in right now, and it's not South Africa's. It will be a close series, but I do think England will win, and especially if they get off to a good start in the first Test, they could win quite convincingly.
"They have an impressive team and one that is out here with no baggage. South Africa have the problems right now, with question marks over their bowling attack, particularly if Dale Steyn isn't fit."
Watch the first Test between South Africa and England in Durban live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 7.30am on Boxing Day, Saturday 26th December.
