WATCH: “It was a lifelong dream come true” - Cook
Since making his First Class debut at the beginning of the millennium, it has been a long wait for Stephen Cook to make his debut for South Africa, and the opening batsman said it was a lifelong dream come true on day one of the fourth Test against England in Centurion on Friday.
Cook, 33, methodically built his innings before becoming the fourth oldest Test debutant to score a century on debut as South Africa reached 329/5 at the close of play.
“It was a lifelong dream come true. Even from a young age, it’s about making your debut and playing for South Africa, but it’s also about performing as well and scoring hundreds,” said Cook who made 115 runs from 218 balls including 14 fours.
“For so many guys it’s their goal to make a team, but for me it was so much greater. I want to contribute to Proteas’ victory and successes through my performances.”
The Lions opener who had scored 11427 First Class runs before earning his way overdue call-up, looked composed in his footwork and strokeplay throughout his stay at the crease. Cook also became the first South African to make a Test hundred on debut since Stiaan van Zyl against the West Indies at the same ground in December 2014. And for good measure, Cook was the 100th Test cricketer to score a ton on debut.
Cook had been denied the chance to play for South Africa throughout his career because of the Proteas embarrassment of riches when it came to openers with Graeme Smith, Herschelle Gibbs, Alviro Petersen and Neil McKenzie all representing the nation. And although Cook was prolific on the domestic scene without recognition, he never gave up hope.
“As time went on I knew it was less likely I was going to make my debut. But I never gave up hope, I always just carried on. If I had given up hope it would have been difficult to carry on. I never felt that, and I knew the day would come if I was just consistent and put in enough performances.”
Cook’s father Jimmy, played just three Tests for South Africa towards the end of his career when the country was re-admitted to international cricket after isolation. And it was an especially proud day for father Jimmy who watched on as his son systematically notched up the milestones. Jimmy made his debut for South Africa at the age of 39, and was out first ball against India in Durban in November 1992.
“Last night my dad called me and said if you don’t get out to the first one you’re already better than me.
“So I was really glad for that first one on my pads. He came over to me afterwards and told me he was really proud. I owe a lot to him. He threw me balls, and fed bowling machines for many years when I was growing up. It was probably one for him because he didn’t get the chance growing up.” - ANA
(Photo from video)