/ Editor / 18 May 2007 /

Alistair Cook claims his absence from England's World Cup squad has helped him after he hit a century against the West Indies.

The 22-year-old Essex man overcame a slow wicket at Lord's, as England were put into bat by the Windies on day one of the first Test. He then went on to reach 102 not out as the hosts finished the rain-affected day on 200-3.

Following his fifth Test ton, Cook claimed that the experience picked up from the winter 5-0 whitewash at the hands of Australia has helped him significantly.

"It is always vital you play in the build-up and I was lucky enough in one way not to go the World Cup," he said.

"I wish I had been there but I had two months off and worked on my game away from prying eyes with (Essex coaches) Graham Gooch and Andy Flower.

"I came back nice and fresh and I hit the ground running."

Cook added: "I would not have wished what happened in Australia on my worst enemies. Those feelings, those games, a lot of people went through hell.

"But you can only learn from an experience like that and look forward."

Following his opening day ton, Cook is now the 2.52 favourite to finish the four-Test series as England's top batsman. Kevin Pietersen, who made just 26 runs, is currently trading at 3.4 with Paul Collingwood on offer at 5.6.

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