Ali Martin’s report from Old Trafford has landed, which is my cue to do one. Thanks for your company and emails – goodnight!
Ben Foakes speaks
“It’s a relief; I’m overjoyed. Getting a Test hundred… I got one in my first game, then there was a bit of a wait. I’ve realised how hard they are to come by! When you have a lean patch it makes it much more special. The whole journey makes you really value it – days like this are amazing.
“[Stokes and McCullum] are just so clear in what they expect from you. They don’t put too much pressure on you – they let you do it your way, and play with freedom. They’re so supportive and the message is always clear, which really helps.
“South Africa have got a fantastic bowling attack and it was tough out there, but that partnership has put us in a good position. Hopefully we can do the job tomorrow.
“This hundred is more special than my first. Fairytale-wise, it’s the one on debut, but you don’t know what’s to come after that. You don’t have any hardship behind you. But when you think back to places like Ahmedabad [in 2021], trying to figure out how to even hit the ball, and all the trials and tribulations you go through… yeah this one definitely touched me a bit more.”
