It’s a glove-in for Foakes

BEN FOAKES has earned the support of England players past and present to continue in the side as wicketkeeper even if first-choice stumper Jonny Bairstow is fit to return. Foakes (left) wasn’t even named in the original tour squad but by a little luck and plenty of skill he managed to take home the man-of-thematch award from Galle and is surely at the start of a long England career. The Surrey ace, 25, was understandably modest about his place in the pecking order despite a maiden ton on debut and a silky display with the gloves but there have been honest assessments elsewhere.

Moeen Ali took eight wickets in the match and could see closer than most just how well Foakes operated and said: “It is going to be a tough one to call going forward.

“The way the guys batted was really good in this match and I think Foaksey taught a few of us older guys who have been around a while how to bat on these wickets.”

Former England keeper Matt Prior said: “He made it look so easy. But you have to add the temperament to deal with the situation. He has earned the right to stay in that team.”

DEAN WILSON