England’s upcoming three-test series against Sri Lanka has been clouded by injury concerns. All-rounder Chris Woakes, a key member of the England test squad, has withdrawn from The Hundred tournament due to an unspecified injury. This news comes on the heels of captain Ben Stokes being helped off the field on Sunday with a suspected hamstring injury.
Woakes, 35, was initially named in England’s test squad and was also expected to play in the remaining two group stage matches for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. However, his withdrawal from the tournament raises questions about his availability for the Sri Lanka series.
Meanwhile, Stokes’ injury is also a major concern for England. His involvement in the first test, scheduled for August 21st at Old Trafford, is now uncertain. The severity of his hamstring injury is yet to be determined, but the fact that he was helped off the field suggests it could be serious.
England’s squad depth will be tested if they are forced to play the series without both Woakes and Stokes. The team will need to rely on other players to step up and fill the void left by these two key players.
The news of these injuries comes as a blow to England’s hopes of winning the series against Sri Lanka. The team will be hoping for a swift recovery for both players, but it remains to be seen whether they will be fit in time for the first test.
