Ben Foakes is better than MS Dhoni, sensationally claims Alec Stewart

Former England cricketer Alec Stewart has praised Ben Foakes for his exceptional wicketkeeping skills in the ongoing five-match Test series against India. Alec Stewart also compared Ben Foakes’ glove work with legendary Indian wicketkeeper batter MS Dhoni.

Ben Foakes showcased exceptional skills behind the wicket in the first two Tests of the red-ball series in India. The 30-year-old has claimed six dismissals and two stumpings, including two remarkable catches from Rehan Ahmed’s bowling in the Vishakhapatnam Test.

Ben Foakes’ Hand Speed Is Second To None – Alec Stewart

Alec Stewart highlighted Ben Foakes‘ unmatched hand speed, ensuring the ball remains secure in his grasp. Stewart stated that while MS Dhoni had quick hands, Foakes possessed the quickest in the game.

“He does things that no one else can do. His hand speed is second to none. MS Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has the quickest hands in the game and the ball stays in them,” Stewart told to The Times.

Ben Foakes was not part of England’s last year’s Ashes series at home, where Jonny Bairstow donned the gloves. However, Harry Brook’s withdrawal due to personal reasons opened up a spot in the batting order. Foakes returned to the playing XI for the series opener.

He’s Got Massive Natural Talent – Alec Stewart

Alec Stewart commended Ben Foakes for his outstanding work ethic, noting the thoroughness with which he approaches his training and preparation.

“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. He leaves no stone unturned. He works on specifics and the quality of the work is impressive,” Stewart added.

However, the wicketkeeper failed to make an impact with the bat in the ongoing series. The right-handed batter has scored 80 runs in four innings at a disappointing average of 20. He has registered scores of 4 runs, 34 runs, 6 runs, and 36 runs so far in the first two matches.

Ben Foakes Gets Rewarded With Some Of The Catches – Alec Stewart

The 60-year-old expressed satisfaction with Fokaes’ performance, attributing it to his rigorous training regimen tailored to excel against spin bowling. Stewart highlighted Fokaes’ proficiency in handling various ball movements on spin friendly tracks.

The visiting team began the series with a 28-run victory in the first Test in Hyderabad. However, the home team bounced back to clinch a 106-run victory in the second game, leveling the red-ball series 1-1. Both teams will hope to win the next game to gain an advantage.

The third Test is scheduled to take place at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot from February 15 to 19.

Also read: “Ben Foakes is a joke” – Rehan Ahmed