Web Desk: England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler will miss the team’s upcoming one-day international series in Pakistan after suffering a hamstring injury.
Buttler sustained the injury during England’s recent ODI against Sri Lanka at Headingley, where he was forced to leave the field before returning later to bat despite appearing to be in discomfort.
The 36-year-old subsequently missed England’s 223-run victory over Sri Lanka at The Oval on Sunday and is not expected to recover in time for October’s tri-series involving England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
England limited-overs coach Brendon McCullum confirmed that Buttler will not travel to Pakistan.
“Jos won’t be in Pakistan,” McCullum said, adding that the veteran batter would work to return as quickly as possible but that the timeline for his recovery remained uncertain.
McCullum said Buttler’s absence would be disappointing for the team but would also provide an opportunity to assess other players in the squad.
Buttler’s injury could open the door for Jordan Cox to take on a larger role behind the stumps.
Cox marked his return to England’s ODI setup with an impressive innings against Sri Lanka at The Oval, scoring 76 from 52 deliveries. It was his first appearance for England in the format since 2024.
The 25-year-old is now expected to receive further opportunities as England prepare for their upcoming assignments.
England are scheduled to play two matches against Pakistan and two against Sri Lanka during the October tri-series, with the possibility of a final depending on the tournament standings.
Buttler’s absence will remove one of England’s most experienced white-ball players from the campaign at a crucial stage of their preparations.
Earlier this month, Buttler became the first England men’s batter to surpass 10,000 runs across international white-ball cricket, combining his ODI and T20I appearances.
England will now have to manage their campaign without their leading wicketkeeper-batter while Buttler focuses on rehabilitation and his eventual return to international cricket.
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