Overton Ruled Out of White-Ball Series Due to Finger Fracture

EDGBASTON: Jamie Overton will miss the rest of the current white-ball series against the West Indies. The England all-rounder suffered a fractured finger during the opening ODI at Edgbaston on Saturday.

The incident occurred when the 31-year-old attempted to take a sharp return catch off his own bowling early in his spell. The ball deflected off his right hand, causing him to leave the field immediately. Initial assessments suggested a dislocation, but subsequent scans revealed a fracture to his right little finger.

Despite the setback, Overton demonstrated resilience by returning to the field later in the innings. With his finger heavily strapped, he delivered a notable performance, securing 3 wickets for 22 runs in 5.2 overs. This was the best performance by any England bowler in the match.

His dismissals included Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, and Gudakesh Motie.

Overton is now set to commence a rehabilitation program under the guidance of England’s medical team.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that no direct replacement will be named in the ODI squad. Fast bowlers Matthew Potts and Luke Wood are being considered for a call-up, while left-arm spinner Tom Hartley is also in contention, depending on the pitch conditions.

The second ODI of the three-match series is scheduled to take place in Cardiff on Sunday, followed by the final match at the Kia Oval on Tuesday.

In the first ODI held in Birmingham on Thursday, England secured a significant victory over the West Indies by 238 runs. The West Indies, chasing a target of 401 runs, were dismissed for 162 runs in 26.2 overs.