Cricketer Cook to be awarded degree at Essex University (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Cricketer Cook to be awarded degree at Essex University

4:23pm Tuesday 5th March 2013 in Local News

CRICKETER Alastair Cook is set to be awarded with an honorary degree from Essex University.

The England test captain will be presented with the degree at a ceremony at the uni’s Colchester campus on April 10.

Since becoming captain in August 2012, Cook, who grew up in Great Totham, has broken several English run records, including becoming the country’s leading century-maker and the youngest player to pass 7,000 runs.

Professor Jules Pretty, Essex University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “Alastair Cook has become one of Essex and England’s finest cricketers and this is a welcome opportunity to acknowledge his contribution to both the sport and the county.

“It will be an honour for our students, staff and guests to be able to hear first-hand about his approach to excellence in cricket and his world-class sporting achievements at the ceremony.”

Cook, 28, made his first-class debut for Essex in 2003 and previously played for Maldon Cricket Club.