Gus Atkinson set to miss England vs India 1st Test? Check details

England fast bowler Gus Atkinson is facing a race against time to be fit for the opening Test of the highly anticipated five-match series against India, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. The promising pacer is reportedly nursing a right hamstring strain, which he picked up during England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May. His injury has since ruled him out of competitive action, including the recently concluded ODI series against the West Indies, which England won comprehensively with a 3-0 clean sweep. Atkinson’s absence from the opening Test could be a setback for England, especially given the pace and control he brings to the bowling attack. His rise through the ranks in recent months had made him a strong contender to feature prominently in this high-profile series against India.

The England management is closely monitoring his recovery, but with just weeks left before the series opener, his availability remains uncertain. Injuries to key players ahead of crucial series have become a concern for England’s selectors, as they look to field a competitive XI to counter a strong Indian side. Atkinson's fitness updates in the coming days will be crucial in determining England's final squad for the first Test.

"Bowler Gus Atkinson is a doubt for the first Test against India later this month because of a right hamstring strain — adding to England's injury concerns among their seamers," a report by the BBC mentioned.

England's fast-bowling department has been hit by a string of injury concerns ahead of their crucial Test series against India, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. The latest setback involves 27-year-old pacer Gus Atkinson, who is likely to miss the opening Test due to a right hamstring strain. Atkinson has quickly emerged as a key figure in England’s pace attack, having claimed three five-wicket hauls in just 12 matches. His absence could significantly impact England’s plans, especially considering the challenging conditions expected in the series against a strong Indian side.

Adding to England's worries, seasoned pacers Mark Wood and Olly Stone are also grappling with fitness issues. Furthermore, Jofra Archer’s much-anticipated return to the Test arena has been postponed once again, this time due to a thumb injury sustained during training. These mounting injury concerns are forcing England to reevaluate their pace options just weeks before the high-stakes red-ball contest. Before the India series, England will face the West Indies in a three-match T20I series starting this Friday at Chester-le-Street. That series will serve as a final test of form and fitness for England’s squad, who hope to regain rhythm and morale ahead of the much-anticipated Test showdown.