England captain Ben Stokes praised wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes, labelling him as a highly talented player ahead of the first Test match against India scheduled to begin on January 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
This series marks England's second Test series in the third cycle of the World Test Championship, following their 2-2 draw against Australia in the 2023 Ashes.
In anticipation of the Hyderabad Test, Stokes lauded Foakes as an exceptional talent, emphasising unique abilities that set him apart from other wicketkeepers. Foakes, with 20 Test matches for England under his belt, has showcased his skills with 57 catches and six stumpings.
“He can not only do things other keepers can't, but also make them look incredibly easy. He's a very special talent behind there and having someone like that who can maybe take a 2%, 3% chance, that could be massive in the series,” said Stokes.
Speaking about his fitness, Stokes affirmed that he has taken all necessary measures to be prepared for Test cricket representing his country. His most recent appearance for England was in the 2023 ODI World Cup in November of the previous year.
“I've done everything away from it that a match requires. I'd never put myself ahead of the team if I didn't think I could go out and play at a certain level. I'd never be that selfish to think of myself not performing at a certain level and what that could do to the team. I've done everything I needed to do to say I'm ready to go and play a Test match for England. I might have some long days in the field but I'm ready,” Stokes added.
England’s squad for India series
Ben Stokes (C), James Anderson, Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Shoaib Bashir, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes (WK), Dan Lawrence, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Mark Wood.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
