Legendary England all-rounder Ian Botham has backed Adil Rashid to perform well against India in the upcoming five-match series starting August 1.Botham also said the criticism around the surprise inclusion of Rashid in the England Test squad was pretty unnecessary.Leg-spinner Rashid was selected for the first of five matches against India despite quitting red-ball cricket ahead of the 2018 county season and having not played a first-class game since September.Former England captain Michael Vaughan dubbed it “ridiculous” and “a stab in the back for county cricket” before Rashid hit back. Another former skipper Nasser Hussain felt Rashid’s Test recall sets a dangerous precedent for county cricket.But Botham had a different view.”I don’t understand what Michael was on about, it was pretty unnecessary,” Botham said on Sky Sports.”Adil is fed up with it and has reacted. There has been a lot of stuff out there written and I just don’t get it. I wonder if some people just do it for effect.”I like the kid and I think he’s come to terms with the way of bowling and sorted out his game plan.”I was kind of surprised: Adil Rashid reacts to England Test squad comebackRashid’s stunning delivery to dismiss India captain Virat Kohli in the ODI series raised hopes of a comeback into the Test side.Michael Vaughan, Adil Rashid in bitter war of words over England selectionBotham said, “He does put it out there and is prepared to throw (the ball) up. The Indians will go after him but I hope he does very well. It should be an interesting contest.advertisement”I think he’ll enjoy the red ball – he will enjoy the purchase he can get on it and will have a point to prove.”(With inputs from PTI)