'Crocodile Beefy': I was nearly catch of the day

Botham falls in river infested with killers

- MARTIN FRICKER

CRICKET legend Lord lan Botham has cheated death on a fishing trip when he fell in a river that is infested with crocodiles and sharks.

He was rescued from the water by pals, including one who used to be a fierce opponent - former Australian fast bowler Merv Hughes.

Lord "Beefy" Botham, 68, was fishing Down Under when he got his flipflops caught on rope and plunged head first into the river.

He suffered severe bruising to his body due to hitting the boat on his way down into the murky water.

A family of bull sharks were under the vessel at the time.

Lord Botham said: "My catch of the day was the barra [fish], while I was nearly catch of the day for all the crocs and bull sharks. Thanks, boys, for getting me out."