BEN GARDNER
Managing editor of Wisden.com@Ben_Wisden
England’s decision to drop Ben Foakes for the Ireland Test, and presumably the Ashes, was met with the kind of opprobrium usually reserved for partying prime ministers and queue-hopping TV presenters. Foakes has a well-earned position as a fan favourite, for his easy nature with the bat and in front of the camera, and his star-making work as a wicketkeeper. To many, the decision felt a personal affront.