Manchester: England cricket team captain Ben Stokes is uncertain for the upcoming three-match Test series against Sri Lanka following a hamstring injury incurred during a domestic cricket match.

According to International Cricket Council, Stokes sustained the injury while playing for Northern Superchargers against Manchester Originals in The Hundred competition at Old Trafford. The incident, which saw him attempting a quick single, led to him leaving the field and later appearing on crutches. Teammate Harry Brook expressed concern, noting, “It doesn’t look great unfortunately, but he’ll be getting a scan tomorrow to see how he is.”

The England skipper’s participation in the first Test starting on 21 August in Manchester is now in jeopardy. Should Stokes be unable to play, vice-captain Ollie Pope is likely to assume leadership for a series that England hopes will boost their standing in the World Test Championship.

England, currently sixth in the World Test Championship standings following a recent 3-0 sweep against the West Indies, aims to maintain momentum against Sri Lanka as they prepare for next year’s ICC World Test Championship final.