Jos Buttler has been ruled out of England's third and deciding Metro Bank ODI against Sri Lanka at The Oval on September 27, 2026, after sustaining a left
hamstring injury during the second ODI at Headingley on September 24. Jordan Cox is expected to take the gloves in his absence, with the match likely to be only his fourth ODI cap.
Buttler retired hurt on 67 from 45 balls after feeling a hamstring twinge during the Headingley match. He later returned to the crease but lasted just four more balls before leaving the field. Sri Lanka went on to win that match by 16 runs, levelling the three-match series at 1-1. England will have more information on the extent of Buttler's injury early next week following an MRI scan. Surrey batter Dan Lawrence has been called into the England squad as cover ahead of the decider.
Cox called Jos Buttler the best white-ball player England has ever produced and admitted that he has massive shoes to fill. However, he is looking forward to the challenge in England's last home game of the summer.
“Someone’s unfortunate injury gives someone else an opportunity and, whoever plays, it’s going to be an amazing last day of the year,” Cox told the Press Association.
"If do get that opportunity it will be awesome. You’ve got to look forward to the challenge. They’re big shoes to fill, for sure – Jos is probably the best ever white-ball cricketer we’ve produced. He’s definitely someone I’ve looked up to so from watching him on TV to being in a squad with him is pretty amazing, just knowing the calm nature he has and the presence around the dressing room," he added.
What does Cox's potential call-up mean for the decider?
Cox stepping in behind the stumps at The Oval would be a significant moment in his early international career. The third ODI is set to be a series decider, with England and Sri Lanka locked at 1-1 after Headingley, and the occasion carries considerable weight for any player handed a starting role.
“Being 1-1 isn’t what we wanted but for the series to be on the line and to finish at The Oval, with a packed house, will be pretty special. They’re the games you want to be playing in. It’s about enjoying the moment and finishing the summer on a high," the Royal Challengers Bengaluru cricketer said.
Also Read: Dan Lawrence called up as Jos Buttler misses Oval decider with hamstring injury
In three ODIs, Cox has only managed 22 runs at an average of 7.33. However, he would not want to dwell on the past and focus on what he can achieve if given a chance on Sunday.
