England’s Ashes campaign has suffered a late setback after Gus Atkinson was ruled out of the fifth and final Test against Australia due to a hamstring injury sustained during the fourth match of the series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The Surrey fast bowler experienced discomfort in his left hamstring while bowling and was unable to continue his involvement in the Test. Medical assessment later confirmed that the injury would prevent him from taking part in the series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Atkinson becomes the third England fast bowler to be ruled out during the tour, following injuries to Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. His absence further depletes England’s pace resources at a crucial stage of the Ashes, leaving Brydon Carse as the only remaining member of the original pace group still available.
Throughout the series, Atkinson has been part of England’s seam-bowling rotation, contributing with the ball across multiple matches. His enforced withdrawal adds to the challenge facing England’s management as they look to assemble a balanced attack for the final Test.
England have chosen not to call up a replacement, instead relying on bowlers already within the touring squad. Options available include Matthew Potts and Matthew Fisher, both of whom are in contention to feature in Sydney.
The decision to rule Atkinson out was taken as a precaution, with the priority placed on his recovery rather than risking further damage by accelerating his return.
With Australia holding the upper hand in the series, England head into the final Test seeking to finish the tour on a positive note despite another injury setback. Atkinson’s absence is a blow to their bowling depth, but it also opens the door for another seamer to step into the spotlight in the concluding chapter of the Ashes.
