Ben Stokes sidelined from England's Test series against Sri Lanka, Ollie Pope appointed as captain

England cricket captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the upcoming test series against Sri Lanka due to a torn hamstring injury that he suffered during a domestic game over the weekend.

The 33-year-old Stokes suffered the injury while batting for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred competition on Sunday, and was later seen on crutches.

Stokes will miss all three tests of England's series against Sri Lanka which begins on Aug. 21.

“The allrounder is aiming to return for England's winter test tour of Pakistan," England said in a statement.

The first test against Pakistan is on Oct. 7 in Multan.

England vice captain Ollie Pope will lead the team in Stokes' absence against Sri Lanka.

England said it isn't adding to the squad for the series.

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