Essex Cricket Academy graduate Ben Foakes scored an impressive 87 not out on his England Test debut to lead England to 321-8 at the close of play on Day One.
The wicketkeeper-batsman was brought into the squad as a late replacement for Jonny Bairstow, who was injured during the one-day series.
His knock so far has come from 184 balls, with 6 fours to his name during 257 minutes at the crease.
Head Scout John Childs said: “Despite Ben moving on to Surrey, everyone at Essex Cricket still views him as a homegrown player and a product of our Academy structure.
“I speak for everyone at the Club when I say that we’re delighted for him and hopefully his fairy-tale debut is complete tomorrow with a century.”
