Alastair Cook has undoubtedly seen it all in his stint as England’s test skipper. His captaincy stint got off to a dream start as he inspired his troops to beat India in India, way back in 2012. That was a feat last achieved by an English captain in 1984. That high was followed by a home series win over Australia in mid-2013.
However, soon gloom began to follow Cook wherever he went. His side was mercilessly drubbed 5-0 by Australia in the return Ashes series, and a 1-0 series loss to Sri Lanka at home was the last thing Cook needed. With Cook staring at a potential axing, he gathered all his confidence to stage an inspiring comeback. In the year gone by, Cook regained the Ashes, and defeated South Africa away from home, to stage a remarkable comeback.
Such qualities are often that separate Cook from his contemporaries. England’s leading wicket-taker James Anderson lauded Cook for his leadership skills recently and was in full support of the southpaw. “I think Cooky’s done a fantastic job. Certainly since Trevor’s come in he’s taken more responsibility. He’s the guy that people look up to and he’s in charge. Obviously, Trevor’s given him that responsibility so that’s been good,” said Anderson, also crediting coach Trevor Bayliss for his efforts with the side.
“It was gutting really and we’ll not be in that situation again this time,” said Anderson. “With a change of coach and a few different players in there as well, the last 12 months have been a real breath of fresh air,” Anderson added, about England’s recent form.
“All the teams I’ve ever played in it have always been the coach at the forefront, so for the captain to be in charge, from what I hear that’s the way the Australians did it all the way through their success. So yes possibly Cook is better equipped to deal with situations like that day against Sri Lanka now,” Anderson said.