Pictures: AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena
FORMER Frinton cricketer Ben Foakes has blasted a half-century on his England Test debut.
The Colchester-born wicketkeeper is in action in Sri Lanka, with the first Test having started earlier this morning in Galle.
Foakes has marked his first Test in style with a half-century from 111 balls.
He tucked a single away off his pads to help England bring up 200.
The 25-year-old has become the fourth wicketkeeper in a row to score a half-century on debut for England.
Matt Prior was the first, then Tim Ambrose and Jos Buttler.
Speaking earlier on the BBC's Test Match Special, England legend Alec Stewart said: "Ben has a great temperament and understands his own game.
"He is the best keeper about but people forget he is a very good batsman indeed.
"He looks comfortable at Test level already."
Foakes also had spells with Colchester and East Essex Cricket Club and Clacton Cricket Club.
He is a former student at Tendring Technology College.
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