Gus Atkinson Injury Rules Him Out of England’s ODI Series vs West Indies | Metro Bank ODIs 2025

Gus Atkinson Ruled Out of England’s Metro Bank ODI Series Against West Indies Due to Hamstring Injury

Summary
England pacer Gus Atkinson has been officially ruled out of the Metro Bank ODI series against West Indies due to a right hamstring strain sustained during the recent Test match versus Zimbabwe.
The ECB confirmed no replacement will be added to the ODI squad, as Atkinson begins rehabilitation under the medical team’s supervision.
England ODI squad, captained by Harry Brook, will face the West Indies in a three-match series starting on May 29 at Edgbaston.
The injury sidelines one of England’s key white-ball bowling options ahead of a vital phase in their World Cup preparations.
Despite Atkinson’s absence, England boasts a formidable lineup with experienced names like Buttler, Rashid, and Root returning for the limited-overs leg.

Gus Atkinson Injury Blow as England Prepares for Metro Bank ODI Series

England’s build-up to the Metro Bank ODIs has taken a hit with the withdrawal of Gus Atkinson, one of their most promising pace options in recent seasons. The Surrey seamer suffered a right hamstring strain during England’s Test victory over Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge and will miss the three-match One-Day International series against the West Indies.

According to the official release by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Atkinson will now undergo a structured rehabilitation program under the guidance of England’s medical staff. The ECB has opted not to name a replacement, indicating a vote of confidence in the depth and versatility of the current England ODI squad.

Setback Ahead of a Key Series

The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Atkinson, who has emerged as a serious contender across formats due to his pace, bounce, and variations. He was instrumental in several of England’s white-ball victories over the past year and was expected to play a lead role in the bowling attack in the ODIs against the Windies.

While the injury is not believed to be long-term, it serves as a timely reminder of the risks involved during a packed international calendar. England’s decision to not bring in a direct replacement speaks volumes about the flexibility of their squad, and also opens the door for bowlers like Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, and Luke Wood to step up in Atkinson’s absence.

Harry Brook to Lead as England Looks Ahead

Led by Harry Brook, England will begin their Metro Bank ODI series on May 29 at Edgbaston, before heading to Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on June 1, and concluding the series at The Kia Oval in London on June 3.

Brook, who continues to evolve into a central figure in England’s white-ball setup, will captain a squad that balances youth and experience. With the likes of Joe Root, Jos Buttler, and Adil Rashid back in the fold, England will look to regain momentum following their recent Test success.

Brook’s leadership credentials were solidified earlier in the year during England’s T20 campaigns and his tactical growth will be tested again as he juggles the pressures of captaincy and middle-order responsibilities.

Opportunity for Others in Atkinson’s Absence

With Gus Atkinson ruled out, bowlers like Matthew Potts, Saqib Mahmood, and Jamie Overton will be eager to make their case ahead of a busy limited-overs season that culminates with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

While Atkinson’s withdrawal is a blow in terms of pace variety, Tom Hartley’s spin and the return of Ben Duckett, Tom Banton, and Will Jacks will provide England with flexible batting and all-round options, especially on home surfaces that often assist seam early and spin later.

The selectors’ decision not to call in a backup seam bowler is also a reflection of the conditions expected and confidence in the players currently selected to adapt and rotate effectively across the three games.

West Indies Series: A Key Chapter in England’s ODI Calendar

This England vs West Indies ODI series will be crucial not only for short-term performance but also for England’s long-term roadmap leading up to the 2025 Champions Trophy and beyond. With the ODI format regaining traction after a T20-heavy season, this series offers a platform for England to test strategies, build continuity in selection, and offer fringe players meaningful game time.

For the West Indies, who are rebuilding under new leadership and a younger core, this tour presents an opportunity to prove their resurgence in the 50-over format after several mixed campaigns.

Schedule – Metro Bank ODI Series:

• 1st ODI: May 29, 2025 – Edgbaston, Birmingham

• 2nd ODI: June 1, 2025 – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff

• 3rd ODI: June 3, 2025 – Kia Oval, London

All matches are scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM local time.