ECB rules out Chris Woakes from The Hundred after Ben Stokes injury

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has withdrawn all-rounder Chris Woakes from The Hundred, with the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka in mind. Woakes was set to play for Birmingham Phoenix in their final two league matches against Manchester Originals and Trent Rockets. On Monday 12 August, Phoenix announced that Stokes had been made “unavailable for the remainder of the competition”.

However, the ECB said Woakes’ withdrawal was not linked to Ben Stokes’ injury. Stokes pulled his hamstring while playing for Northern Superchargers in their match against the Originals on Sunday. He was attempting to run when he felt discomfort in his leg. After receiving treatment, Stokes was carried off the park.

He was later taken on a stretcher to an ambulance, but returned to the dugout later on crutches. Harry Brook, the Superchargers captain, said Stokes’ injury “doesn’t look great”. With less than 10 days remaining in England’s three-match Test series against Sri Lanka, Stokes races against time to stay fit.

Birmingham Phoenix still out of the playoffs

Woakes’ absence could hurt Phoenix, who are still some way off securing a top-three spot. Phoenix, however, are on a three-game winning streak, having beaten the Rockets in their previous match.

The Brave are currently third on the table with 10 points and a net run rate of +0.324, thanks to wins in five of the seven games in the tournament.

England’s opening Test against Sri Lanka begins on Wednesday 21 August at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. The iconic Lord’s and Kennington Oval will host the other two Tests.