Graham Gooch

Birmingham: England’s batting consultant Graham Gooch (a former captain) was driving to Worcester, to watch a few hours of the England Lions’ match there on Friday afternoon, when The Telegraph called on his cellphone.

Gooch spoke exclusively on ‘protégé’ Alastair Cook.

The following are excerpts

Your thoughts on Cook’s double hundred...

Alastair’s been the rock of England’s innings... He’d been disappointed with himself in the first two Tests, but had a fantastic summer against Sri Lanka and, last season, had been outstanding in Australia... His double showed just how organised he has become... Today, he’s such a consummate run-maker... He’s done what every opener is expected to do — make it count.

Did you set out for Worcester before Cook reached his double?

(Interrupting almost) No, no... I left Edgbaston just after Alastair moved into the 200s.

Can Cook get a triple?

Of course, because there’s so much time left... But I’d rather not say anything very specific... Often, what you hope for and talk about, doesn’t happen.

[Cook fell just six short of what would have been his maiden triple.]

What makes Cook so hungry?

Alastair has a massive desire to go on and on... His appetite, indeed, is big... He developed his game at Essex and, over the years, has got to know what’s good for him... Has learnt how to operate and is more disciplined outside off.

You’ve been working with Cook for years. Has he changed at all?

The reality is that everybody’s game evolves... Alastair has been very good against the balls pitched short, has been strong on the pull... He has, in the past couple of seasons, worked on his front foot play and that has been fetching results. Like most batsmen, he has refined his game... Enhanced his repertoire.

What’s special about Cook?

Alastair’s ability to get big scores... As I’ve said, he’s got a huge appetite and is particularly harsh on anything short... His best is yet to come, though.

Is there an area where Cook can improve?

All players seek to improve and Alastair’s no different... Now that he’s England’s one-day captain, he’ll be looking to improve his range of shots... I suppose he can get better at playing spin.

What did you tell Cook on Thursday evening, after stumps?

(Laughs) Didn’t get the chance to speak to him exclusively, but there was a celebration (in the dressing room).

Lastly... You’ve coined ‘Daddy Hundreds’...

Alastair’s already got a Grand-daddy Hundred! A Daddy Hundred is any score above 150... The first 50 is the hardest and the third 50 the easiest, as the ball gets old and one can consolidate... If someone gets past 150, then he puts his team in a commanding position. Once there, aim for a bigger score.