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Ben Foakes
Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior stated that Ben Foakes can be a key player in the Test series against India. Ben Foakes was the player of the series against Sri Lanka, as England won 2-0 away from home. The wicket-keeper scored 277 runs at an average of 69.25.
Matt Prior explained how Ben Foakes could be significant both as a wicket-keeper and as a batsman on India's turning tricks. He recalled Ben Foakes' brilliant century against Sri Lanka back in the 2018-19 Test series. The batsman smashed the century when England was in a spot of bother with 103-5 in the board.
Although Joe Root and the team whitewashed Sri Lanka 2-0, England was not in full-strength. Now with the presence of players like Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, the side will be high on confidence to face India.
Jonny Bairstow is not going to be a part of the squad for the first two Tests against India. This is because of England's policy of rotating multi-format players. England also decided to rest Sam Curran and Mark Wood for the first two Tests in Chennai. This player management policy will also see wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler heading back home following the first Test. Ben Foakes will replace him for the remaining three Test matches.
England is being smart by rotating players: Matt Prior
Many veteran cricketers have questioned England's decisions of resting players when it comes to such a crucial series. Matt Prior has supported the team management's move to keep players fresh for other series and leagues. He feels that the entire team will need to perform their best if they want to defeat the Indian team in their home turf.
Matt Prior mentioned that players like Joe Root and Ben Foakes would come in handy to face the Men in Blue. The duo has been in great form, and they have also proved their mettle on such turning tracks. The first Test between India and England is going to take place at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai, February 5.