England have suffered a blow ahead of the decider third ODI against Sri Lanka as wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler is ruled out due to a left hamstring injury.
Jordan Cox is expected to replace Buttler in the playing XI and take over wicketkeeping duties, while Surrey batter Dan Lawrence has been called up as cover.
England's preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup appear to be taking a turn for the worse after the news.
Buttler suffered the injury as he ran between the wickets after Thursday's second ODI at Headingley. He was tended to by England physiotherapist Steve Haw before facing two more deliveries and retiring hurt.
He later returned to bat but was dismissed as England suffered a 16-run defeat. He scored 69, his highest ODI score in three years, but is now set to miss the decider.
England are still awaiting results from scans in order to determine the full extent of the injury. Buttler is expected to undergo an MRI scan, and more information is set to come out early next week.
His absence could give Jordan Cox a chance to play his fourth ODI. The 25-year-old is set to keep wicket over Tom Banton in the series decider.
England have called up Dan Lawrence as cover as they awai...