Gus Atkinson will miss the men’s Hundred final after the ECB ruled him out to prepare for England’s Test against Sri Lanka on Wednesday. Atkinson, named Player of the Series in his debut series against the West Indies with 22 wickets, has played just once for Oval Invincibles this season, where he took 0 for 28 in 10 balls against Trent Rockets. He will not participate in Sunday’s final at Lord’s.
Oval Invincibles’ captain Sam Billings expressed understanding about Atkinson’s withdrawal, noting the impact on the team. “It’s disappointing for him, but Saqib Mahmood has been exceptional throughout the tournament and will stay in the side,” said Billings. The Invincibles will miss Spencer Johnson due to injury, but Tom Curran will return after his rest.
The ECB is exercising caution with England players following Ben Stokes’ hamstring injury, which has ended his season. The Hundred has already withdrawn Chris Woakes. However, Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett (both Birmingham Phoenix), and Jordan Cox (Invincibles) remain available for this weekend’s matches.
Jofra Archer, who has been managed carefully after recent injuries, is expected to play in both Saturday’s eliminator and Sunday’s final if Southern Brave advance. Brave captain James Vince anticipates no restrictions for Archer, though he is cautious.
In the women’s Hundred, Chamari Athapaththu is unavailable for Invincibles’ eliminator against London Spirit as she joins Sri Lanka’s ODI squad in Ireland. Laura Harris and Megan Schutt will provide cover for the team.
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