Ben’s keeping his hopes up
BEN FOAKES has once again proved that in a crowded market his quality can still shine through if given a chance.
But whether the stumper will be able to keep up his budding Test career depends how much England are prepared to simply pick the best players in each position.
With up to four wicketkeepers to choose from on tour this winter – including Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow and James Bracey – Foakes is grabbing his chance with gloves and now bat.
Buttler’s return and Bairstow’s hovering could yet thwart him.
Unless, of course, he maintains these incredibly high standards across the two matches that follow, to make him a worthwhile pick alongside the stronger batters.
“It is fantastic to be playing,” said Foakes.
“With the lack of game time I have had, it’s about getting myself back into it.
“It’s a pretty difficult pitch to keep on.
“Keeping for a full day isn’t something I’ve done for a while, so I am just trying to do my best.”