England wicketkeeper Ben Foakes has received the highest form of praise from former stumper Alec Stewart, who believes the Essex wicketkeeper is even quicker than Indian great MS Dhoni.
The 30-year-old Ben Foakes has often been hailed by many, including captain Ben Stokes, as the best wicket-keeper in the world. Now, Alec Stewart, who is the Director of Surrey Cricket Club, has paid him a huge compliment by putting him above MS Dhoni.
In the ongoing Test series in India, Ben Foakes has showcased his elite skillset behind the stumps. Apart from two swift stumpings, it has been his excellent catching, especially when taking under edges, that has been the most impressive part of his work with the glove. He took six catches in the first two Tests.
Speaking to The Times, Alec Stewart said, “MS Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has the quickest hands in the game and the ball stays in them. He does things that no one else can do. His hand speed is second to none. He’s got massive natural talent but his work ethic, and attention to detail, are as good as I’ve come across both when I played and since I’ve been in this role [Director of Surrey cricket club]. He leaves no stone unturned. He works on specifics and the quality of the work is impressive.”
Before the start of the series, Foakes was unlikely to get into the XI, and Jonny Bairstow would have taken the gloves. But Harry Brook’s withdrawal due to personal reasons allowed England to include Foakes in the side. However, he’s managed only 80 runs in four innings. Foakes’ overall Test average stands at 30, though he has done well in Asia with an average of 35 in 9 Tests and 40 in 6 home Tests.
People should not underestimate Ben Foakes’ batting: Alec Stewart
Amid the Bazball wave, Ben Foakes’ strike rate of 50 is not up to the level of others in his team. But Stewart backs Foakes, who averages 39 in first-class cricket with 16 FC centuries.
“People should not underestimate his batting. He averages just shy of 40 in first-class cricket and when he’s played for England he’s been involved in some match-winning partnerships. You need to be not only physically fit and strong, but mentally fit and strong. The biggest thing is, if you miss a chance, how do you deal with it? He’s good at that,” he added.
The third Test starts on February 15 in Rajkot.
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