Adrian Seconi recounts one of the 150 greatest moments in Otago sport.
No 116: Stephen Boock's super season (1978-79)
The left-arm spinner had an almost mystical control over the cricket ball and could land it on an old one-cent piece.
He was the master of flight and lethal in helpful conditions. But he was also prepared to attack through a patient line and length.
In the late 1970s, Boock was at the peak of his powers. He took an Otago-record 54 wickets in a season in 1978-79 and, a summer earlier, had broken the Canterbury record with 56 scalps.
In all, he took 399 wickets for Otago, 112 more than the next highest wicket-taker, Alexander Downes. It could be some time before his season and career tallies are overhauled.
Boock is also remembered fondly for taking seven wickets in an innings against Auckland, getting up early the next morning to mow the lawns, and returning to Carisbrook to take eight more wickets.
