England’s Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the summer due to a torn left hamstring. The injury occurred during a Hundred match for Northern Superchargers against Manchester Originals on Sunday.
Stokes sustained the injury while attempting a quick single. He pulled up in pain after completing the run and collapsed to the ground, clutching his left leg. He required assistance to leave the field and returned to the dugout on crutches.
A scan on Tuesday confirmed the severity of the injury, ruling Stokes out of the upcoming three-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins in Manchester on August 21.
Ollie Pope, Stokes’ vice-captain for over a year, will assume full captaincy duties for the series.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated that Stokes aims to return for England’s winter Test tour of Pakistan, which commences in Multan on October 7. Zak Crawley, who is missing the Sri Lanka series with a finger injury, is also targeting the Pakistan tour for his comeback.
England has opted not to name a replacement for Stokes in their squad for the Sri Lanka series. In his absence, Jordan Cox could make his Test debut as a specialist batter at No. 6. Alternatively, the team could adjust its balance by promoting Jamie Smith and Chris Woakes to No. 6 and 7, respectively, and selecting an additional seamer like Matthew Potts or Olly Stone.
Stokes’ injury is a significant blow to England’s Test team. He is a key all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball. His absence will test the depth of England’s squad and provide opportunities for other players to step up.
