Foakes In Wings If Vince Flops Again

Chris Stocks analyses the problem at No.3 for England and finds that a former England captain is offering a solution

- Chris Stocks

James Vince is facing the biggest week of his fledgling Test career as he aims to prove his considerable number of doubters he is the man to solve England’s No.3 problem.

The Hampshire captain was a surprise selection for this Ashes tour after being dropped following seven Tests in the home summer of 2016, when he averaged just 19.27.

The choice of Vince to replace Tom Westley this winter proved the selectors literally found themselves going around in circles trying to find a long-term replacement at three for Jonathan Trott, whose presence in that pivotal position ended when he flew home following the first Test of the 2013-14 Ashes with a stress-related illness.

Vince was picked on a hunch that his game suits the faster tracks of Australia despite the fact he bats at four for Hampshire and averaged just 32 in the County Championship last summer.

Even the 26-year-old admitted he was surprised to get the nod when he spoke at the start of the tour, saying: “Initially, I didn’t expect to get the call but after I did and I had a bit of time for it to settle in I was very excited to be coming here.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to establish myself in the team and kickstart my Test career.”