The fast bowler suffered a hamstring strain during England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe

England fast bowler Gus Atkinson has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies due to a hamstring strain suffered during the recent Test against Zimbabwe. However, England remains hopeful he will be fit for the Test series against India next month.

Atkinson bowled only three overs on the final day of England’s victory over Zimbabwe before being seen clutching his hamstring. An ECB spokesperson confirmed he is now undergoing rehabilitation with the England medical team. Despite this setback, England is confident he will be available for the first Test against India at Headingley on June 20. Atkinson has been a consistent performer in Test cricket since his debut last July, taking 55 wickets in 12 matches.

England’s fast-bowling resources, which were stretched against Zimbabwe, are set to be bolstered by the return of Brydon Carse (toe) and Chris Woakes (ankle) from County Championship injuries. Jofra Archer (thumb) is also aiming for a Test comeback during the India series, though Mark Wood (knee) is out of the series.

Luke Wood has replaced Archer in the ODI squad for the West Indies series. Atkinson will not be replaced, with Carse, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, and Matthew Potts forming England’s other seam options for the first ODI at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Chris Woakes will continue his return by playing for England Lions against India A at Canterbury this week. Other fast-bowling prospects in the Lions squad with England development contracts include Sonny Baker and Josh Hull, alongside Eddie Jack and Ajeet Singh Dale.