5 Best batting performances of Alastair Cook

3. 235* v Australia, 1^st Test:

This century by Cook paved way for him to become a permanent and a dependable batsman in the English squad. Playing against arch rivals, the pressure on Cook’s shoulders was already doubled before coming to the crease. He did manage to score a gutsy 67 in the first innings, but his knock in the second innings was a turning point in his career. He managed a huge partnership of 329 with Jonathan Trott and helped England declare at an unbelievable score of 517/1. He batted for almost 11 hours and his score consisted of 26 fours. He went on to score 766 runs in the Ashes and helped England win their first Ashes down under since 1987.