by Tom Maston
Steven Crook’s thrilling 46 from just 24 balls was the
catalyst that saw Northamptonshire reach their maiden T20 Final, and skipper
Alex Wakely was full of praise for the all-rounder.
Crook, who joined the Wantage Road outfit for the second
time in his career after being released by Middlesex at the end of the 2012
season, was in blistering form as he transformed a match that was slipping out
of reach for the Steelbacks into a relatively simple victory.
Captain Wakely revealed that Australian-born Crook had had
quite an impact since he arrived back at the Club.
“He’s been outstanding for us. The talk of the town is that
he’s the Northampton Botham!” he said.
“In all forms of cricket he’s been brilliant for us. He
plays the same every time and just goes out to smack it. This year it’s paying
off for him.
“He can’t do anything wrong at the moment. I’m really happy
he’s done this on the big stage because the season he’s had so far has been
fantastic,” he added.
Despite coming out second best at Edgbaston, Essex skipper
James Foster was also in awe of Crook, and even speculated that he should be
recognised by international selectors.
“It’s a big game so for someone to come in and do that is
special,” he told a press conference.
“I do believe England should be taking a look at Crook. He’s
having an exceptional season this year, and I know England will look at him and
want him to back it up, but he’s one of those players who will come at you.
“He bowls pace and people who can strike the ball out of the
park are few and far between.
“He was out of the game a few years ago and not enjoying it but
now he’s got that care-free attitude and he’s been exceptional in all forms
this year.”
Northants will be hoping that the once wannabe rockstar
Crook can repeat the dose in the Final later on Saturday evening.
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