England have added Dan Lawrence to their squad after Jos Buttler was ruled out of the third ODI with a hamstring issue.

England have drafted Dan Lawrence into their squad for the third and final ODI against Sri Lanka after Jos Buttler was ruled out with a left hamstring problem. The series is level at 1-1, setting up a decisive contest at The Oval on September 27.

Buttler made 31 in England’s victory in the opening ODI before producing another important contribution during the second match. Batting at 157 for three while chasing 322, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter attacked the Sri Lankan bowlers and kept England’s chase on course.

Buttler Suffers Hamstring Problem

Buttler reached 66 before discomfort in his left hamstring forced him from the field during the 38th over. Although he later returned, he managed only three additional runs as Sri Lanka’s bowlers controlled the closing stages.

England eventually finished 16 runs short of the target, leaving the series evenly poised. Buttler’s absence now creates an opportunity for Jordan Cox to potentially take over the wicketkeeping duties in the deciding fixture.

Cox in Line for ODI Opportunity

Cox has played only three ODIs for England but enters the selection picture after a productive period in Test cricket. The 25-year-old scored 202 runs at an average of 50.50 across England’s recent three-Test series against Pakistan.

The wicketkeeper-batter has welcomed the possibility of featuring in the crucial final ODI and acknowledged the significance of replacing a player of Buttler’s stature.

Lawrence Provides Another Option

Dan Lawrence replaces Jos Buttler as an additional option for England, although the 28-year-old has yet to make his international debut in limited-overs cricket. His selection also gives the team an opportunity to assess different combinations ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

Lawrence has represented England in 17 Tests and recently scored 65 against Pakistan. He also contributed with the ball in that match, taking two wickets with his off-spin.

With the series tied, England must now decide whether to hand Cox another ODI opportunity or introduce Lawrence as they seek to settle the series at The Oval.