After suffering a left hamstring injury during the second ODI at Headingley on September 24, Jos Buttler will not play in England’s third and crucial Metro Bank ODI against Sri Lanka at The Oval on September 27, 2026. In his absence, Jordan Cox is anticipated to take the gloves; this will probably be his fourth ODI cap.
Jos Buttler felt a pain in his hamstring during the Headingley match and retired hurt on 67 after 45 balls. Afterward, he went back to the crease, but he was out of the game after just four more balls. After winning that game by 16 runs, Sri Lanka tied the three-match series at 1-1. After an MRI, England will learn more about the severity of Jos Buttler’s injury early next week. Dan Lawrence, a batter from Surrey, has been called up to the England team as cover ahead of the last match.
England will learn more about the severity of Jos Buttler’s injury early next week
Cox acknowledged that he has enormous shoes to fill and referred to Jos Buttler as the greatest white-ball player England has ever produced. He is eager to take on the challenge in England’s final summer home match, though.
Cox told the Press Association, “Whoever plays, it’s going to be an incredible final day of the year. Someone’s unfortunate injury gives someone else an opportunity.”It will be fantastic if I am given the chance. You must be excited about the challenge. Jos is arguably the best white-ball cricket player we have ever produced, so they are undoubtedly huge shoes to fill. He’s obviously someone I’ve looked up to, so it’s very wonderful to be in a squad with him after seeing him on TV and witnessing his composed demeanour and presence in the dressing room,” he continued.
An important turning point in Cox’s early international career would come when he took over behind the stumps at The Oval. With England and Sri Lanka tied at 1-1 following Headingley, the third ODI is expected to be a series decider. For every player given a starting role, the event bears significant weight.
“Being 1-1 isn’t what we intended, but it will be fairly remarkable to finish the series at The Oval with a full house. You desire to participate in these games. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru cricket player stated, “It’s about savouring the moment and ending the summer on a high.”
Also Read: Kotak on Yashasvi Jaiswal Amid India’s Selection Dilemma
Cox has only achieved 22 runs at an average of 7.33 in three ODIs. But instead of dwelling on the past, he would like to concentrate on what he can accomplish on Sunday if given the opportunity.
