Jos Buttler Ruled Out of Lancashire's T20 Blast Quarterfinal, T20I Series Against Australia in Doubt

England captain Jos Buttler will miss Lancashire's T20 Blast quarterfinal due to a calf injury, putting his participation in the T20I series against Australia at risk. The England management remains optimistic about his recovery ahead of the series starting September 11.

England skipper Jos Buttler has been ruled out of Lancashire's T20 Blast quarterfinal against Sussex on Wednesday due to a calf injury, casting uncertainty over his participation in the upcoming T20I series against Australia. The three-match series at home kicks off on September 11.

The England team management, however, remains optimistic about Buttler's availability for the full white-ball tour, which also includes five ODIs. The team's new-look squad will report at the Utilita Bowl on Sunday for two training days, where medical staff will assess Buttler's condition more thoroughly.

In the absence of an official vice-captain, Sam Curran and Phil Salt are suggested as potential leaders if Buttler misses out. The England captain is expected to play as a specialist batter in the T20I series. Buttler has not played competitive cricket since England's ICC T20 World Cup semifinal loss to India in June. Lancashire coach Dale Benkestein confirmed Buttler's setback, dampening his prospects of returning for the international series.

(With inputs from agencies.)