Ben Foakes keeps the gloves for second Test in Sri Lanka after stunning England debut

Foakes impressed on debut with a first-innings century and a superb display behind the stumps and, regardless of whether or not Jonny Bairstow is fit and available for selection, he will retain his place

Ben Foakes will remain as wicketkeeper for England in the second Test against Sri Lanka in Kandy.

Foakes impressed on debut with a first-innings century and a superb display behind the stumps and, regardless of whether or not Jonny Bairstow is fit and available for selection, he will retain his place.

Bairstow, who has been out of the side since turning his ankle playing football during the white-ball leg of the tour, may have to make do with carrying the drinks at the Pallekele International Stadium.

“Ben is going to keep. We’ve come to Sri Lanka to win this tour and in these conditions, I think he is the best option behind the stumps,” captain Joe Root said.

^{England wicketkeeper Ben Foakes}

“It’s a great opportunity for Ben to show his ability and I think you’ve got to reward a performance like last week.”

Meanwhile, Jos Buttler - who reports have suggested will bat at No.3 for England in the second Test after Moeen Ali's struggles in Galle - has lavished Foakes with praise.

“Foakesy had a fantastic game in Galle… probably the best debut ever in Test cricket,” he said.

“By lunch on day two, he had a hundred, a stumping and a catch. It’s going pretty well.”