Ben Stokes injury

Ben Stokes pulled his hamstring during the 2024 Hundred fixture between the Northern Superchargers and Manchester Originals, raising doubts over his participation in England’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.

Stokes suffered a hamstring injury while attempting a single during the match. He was writhing in pain while being attended by medical staff, punching his leg in frustration. Consequently, his innings was cut short for a four-ball two as he was carried off the field. Later, he appeared on crutches before returning to the dressing room to see Northen Superchargers clinch a seven-wicket win with three balls remaining.

Superchargers captain Harry Brook said Stokes' condition "doesn't look great". The England Test skipper will undergo scans to know the extent of his injury, which will be revealed on Monday, confirmed a Northern Superchargers spokesperson.

Stokes has been playing in the Hundred for the first time since the inaugural edition in 2021, and this was his third match for his side.

England will host Sri Lanka for a three-match Test series from August 21, with Stokes’ participation in the curtain-raiser not looking very likely. Should he miss it, Ollie Pope, the side’s vice-captain, will fill in for the skipper.

Over the years, Stokes has battled a chronic knee injury that has kept him away from bowling for prolonged periods. In the recent series against the West Indies, which England won 3-0, the all-rounder successfully rolled over his arm after undergoing surgery during the English winter.

Stokes missing out will be a huge blow for England, who have already lost opener Zak Crawley due to a finger injury. Dan Lawrence will open the batting in Crawley’s absence, with Jordan Cox named as a cover.

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