England star's horror over disturbing on-field injury

Jos Buttler has opened up on the disturbing incident that overshadowed England’s warm-up match against Sri Lanka.

Fielding at short leg for the Sri Lanka Board XI, Buttler’s powerful shot struck Pathum Nissanka in the helm and sent him to the ground.

Players were immediately concerned for the young Sri Lankan’s welfare, and Butler said he immediately “feared the worst”.

“I hit him very hard and straight in the middle of the helmet,” Buttler said.

“Luckily, the medics rushed straight on and treated him and it’s good to hear he’s doing better.”

Nissanka was immediately attended by medics, and was taken from the field to the hospital once he had regained consciousness.

Sri Lanka Cricket was quick to confirm the 20-year-old got an MRI scan done in the hospital and will be kept under observation over the next 24 hours.

Meanwhile, England bowler Ben Stokes retired early due to an injury scare whilst captain Joe Root went on to notch a century – but Buttler’s main concern was the welfare of Nissanka.

“It is always a thankless position to field at short leg and, unfortunately, these things can happen and we just hope he’s not badly hurt,” he said.

“You don’t really care about getting out, you just hope the lad is OK.

“From yourself hitting it, I knew I had hit it pretty hard and straight away you’re worried about the guy.”

England’s first Test against Sri Lanka will commence on Tuesday.

with Agencies.