3. 190 v India, Kolkata, 2012

Cook’s 5th Test century as captain was a memorable one as it turned the scenario of the series. He kept on sweeping India’s spinners to distraction and surprised one and all with the twinkling use of his feet to smash the spinners for straight sixes. From 1-0 down, Cook’s eight-hour knock in Kolkata set up England to go 2-1 ahead with a match to play. For a year his truce of convenience with Pietersen held and the team seemed to be balanced enough to regain the summit.