Jos Buttler ruled out of England's Pakistan ODI tri-series
Buttler out of Pakistan tri-series with hamstring injury; Cox to keep wicket as England prepare for 2027 World Cup.
Jos Buttler has been ruled out of England's ODI tri-series in Pakistan after suffering a hamstring injury during the second ODI against Sri Lanka at Headingley last month. The former captain initially retired hurt before returning to the crease and scoring 69. England limited-overs coach Brendon McCullum said Buttler will do everything possible to recover quickly but has no clear timeline for return.
Jordan Cox will keep wicket in Buttler's absence after returning to the ODI side for the first time in nearly two years. Cox scored 76 against Sri Lanka in the series decider at the Kia Oval. England will play Pakistan and Sri Lanka twice each in the tri-series beginning October 20 in Rawalpindi.
England selector Marcus North said the tri-series provides an opportunity to test the squad against quality opposition in different conditions. Jofra Archer has been rested to manage his workload following a busy summer.
CricHubb Take
Buttler's absence hands Cox extended exposure that could reshape England's white-ball keeper selection debate heading into the 2027 World Cup cycle, where experience versus emerging options will be tested under pressure.