England Test Captain Ben Stokes Ruled Out for the Rest of the Summer

England Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the summer after suffering a tear to his left hamstring during a match in The Hundred. The injury occurred while batting for Northern Superchargers against Manchester Originals at Old Trafford on Sunday, forcing the 33-year-old all-rounder onto crutches.

Stokes will miss England’s upcoming three-Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on 21 August. In his absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope will step up to lead the side. Stokes is hopeful of making a return in time for England’s three-Test tour of Pakistan, which starts on 7 October.

The injury setback comes as a blow to England’s plans. Stokes had appeared to be back to full fitness this summer after recovering from a left knee surgery that had previously hindered his bowling. He had opted out of the Indian Premier League and the T20 World Cup to focus on his recovery, leading England to a 3-0 series victory over the West Indies in the spring, where he took five wickets at an average of 34.20.

Despite a solid return to international cricket, Stokes’s stint in The Hundred was less successful. He played three matches for the Northern Superchargers, scoring only four runs and failing to take any wickets.

England’s Test series against Sri Lanka will commence at Emirates Old Trafford from 21-25 August, followed by matches at Lord's and the Kia Oval. The team will be looking to adjust their strategy and leadership in light of Stokes’s absence.