Kirtley out of NatWest Series after training accident

England fast bowler James Kirtley had his involvement in the NatWest Series ended when he suffered a hand injury during a training session at Old Trafford prior to the match against Sri Lanka. He will be out for between four and six weeks after suffering a dislocation to his right hand when attempting to take a return catch from Jeremy Snape in the nets.

He was taken to hospital for an x-ray that revealed the damage that brings another halt to Kirtley's international career after he had played in all England's matches in this series. He had just back into the side after having remedial coaching on his bowling action after being reported during England's tour of Zimbabwe last winter.

England will not call up a replacement at this stage, thereby opening the way for Alex Tudor to have his first game or giving Matthew Hoggard another chance after his mauling at the hands of the Sri Lankans at Headingley.