Alastair initially began playing cricket in his youth, captaining the cricket team at Bedford School. A prominent figure in domestic cricket as part of the Essex team, after establishing a strong passion for the sport at school, Alastair joined the Essex Academy aged just 16. His first-class debut came in 2003, playing against the Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and he fast became integral to the team, scoring his first-class century in a 2004 match. Continually capturing the crowd’s attention as a talented and driven player, Alastair was awarded the PCA Young Cricketer of the Year 2005.
Called to join the England squad in 2006, Alistair soon garnering a reputation as an impeccable batsman and has since proven himself to be one of the greatest cricketers of all time. He was named the Country’s Greatest Test XI in 2018 and is the youngest Englishman to score 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 and 6000 Test runs. In 2012 Alastair was asked to become the Captain of the England cricket team, a testament to his leadership and talent. He went on to become England’s most-capped player, captaining the England team in 69 ODIs and 59 Tests which stands as an English record, and a career highlight got Alastair. Furthermore, Alastair is the first England player to have taken part in 50 Test victories and has also scored a record-breaking 33 Test Centuries for his country.
A well-rewarded player, Alastair has frequently been recognised for his achievements. From winning the NBC Denis Compton Award across four consecutive years to the PCA Young Cricketer of the Year Award in 2005 and 2006, and the CWC Young Cricketer of the Year Award in 2005, Alastair’s achievements speak for themselves. With such honourable commitment to the sport, Alastair has also been recognised by the Queen. In 2016 he was bestowed with a CBE, followed by a Knight Bachelor in the 2019 New Years Honours list.
Sir Alastair Cook is one of few who can put claim to the unparalleled achievements he has made in his sporting career. As an after-dinner speaker specialising in supplying anecdotes of his time on the cricket field, Alastair is entertaining and engaging. Armed with inspiring tales of his beloved game, Alastair is perfect to entertain sports enthusiasts across the country.
