Ben Stokes Injury Update: England Captain’s Test Series in Jeopardy

England cricket fans are holding their breath as captain Ben Stokes faces a potentially lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury. The 33-year-old all-rounder was forced to retire hurt during Northern Superchargers’ win over Manchester Originals in The Hundred, sparking concerns about his participation in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.

Ben Stokes injured during The Hundred

According to Harry Brook, Stokes’ England teammate and Superchargers captain, the injury ‘doesn’t look great.’ Brook revealed that Stokes will undergo a scan to determine the extent of the damage, but the signs are ominous. Former England skipper Michael Atherton, providing punditry for Sky Sports, believes it is ’extremely unlikely’ that Stokes will be available for the opening Test against Sri Lanka on August 21.

‘The way that he gripped the back of his leg looked like hamstring to me, which may well be a significant period out,’ Atherton said.

Ben Stokes on crutches

Stokes’ injury is a significant blow to England’s chances in the Test series. The all-rounder has been in excellent form, scoring three half-centuries and taking four wickets in the recent Test series against the West Indies. If Stokes is ruled out, vice-captain Ollie Pope is likely to take over the reins as skipper for the interim period.

The England cricket team will be hoping that Stokes’ injury is not as severe as initially feared. However, with the Test series against Sri Lanka just around the corner, time is of the essence. England fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that their captain can make a speedy recovery and lead the team to victory.

Ben Stokes in action

In the meantime, England will have to regroup and reassess their strategy without their talismanic captain. The team will be looking to other players to step up and fill the void left by Stokes’ absence. With the Test series against Sri Lanka promising to be a thrilling encounter, England fans will be eagerly awaiting news on Stokes’ injury and the team’s preparations for the upcoming matches.