Alastair Cook’s solidity at the other end inspired Nick Compton to compile his maiden half-century in Test career. This is how Compton acknowledged his captain’s contribution as England ended a “satisfactory” second day against India at the Eden Gardens on Thursday.
“Batting with him (Cook) is such a wonderful experience. He has been really upfront when I played some good shots and that is how he instils confidence in other players to perform,” Compton said. “Unflappable is the term that best describes him. He is solid and takes batting to a different level of excellence,” said Compton about his Cook, who overwrote history scoring the highest number of centuries as an Englishman in Test cricket. The 27-year-old England captain also crossed 7,000 runs which according to his opening partner is quite an “amazing moment”.
“It is nice to see him (Cook) become the all-time highest scorer of hundreds. That speaks volumes about his ability. He is tough and does his job with precision. He doesn’t have the airs and knows his job so well.”
Regarding his own batting Compton said he was happy to have got something substantial at the right occasion. “I have been trying in every game to get a good score. I am happy that I got something substantial at last and feel positive about it (the 57 runs that he scored). It also feels nice to have given the team some stability,” Compton said about his innings.
The England opener said that he had gloved the ball and was disappointed to have been ruled leg-before. “The ball hit my gloves and I am a bit disappointed about the decision. But from his (umpire Rod Tucker) position I would say it was a very difficult decision,” Compton said about his dismissal.
Summing up his team’s performance so far Compton said England has made a good comeback by sticking to a disciplined approachCompton said he was satisfied how England has built up partnerships so far and hoped that will help in giving them a big score.
