England opener Emilio Gay has suffered a shoulder injury during Durham’s One-Day Cup clash with Middlesex, putting his fitness under scrutiny less than two weeks before England’s Test series against Pakistan.
The 26-year-old was batting when he began experiencing discomfort in his right shoulder.
He continued for a period but was forced to call for medical assistance after playing an on-drive against Middlesex seamer Toby Roland-Jones.
Gay Forced to Retire Hurt
After receiving several minutes of treatment from the Durham physio, Gay was unable to continue his innings.
He retired hurt on eight runs and left the field for further assessment.
Durham have confirmed that the opener will be evaluated over the weekend, with the extent of the injury not yet known.
The timing of the problem could be particularly significant for Gay, who has been included in England’s expanded 16-man squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan.
England Test Place Now Under Watch
England are due to begin their three-match Test series against Pakistan at Headingley on 19 August, leaving Gay with limited time to recover if the shoulder problem proves serious.
His inclusion in the squad had represented an important opportunity for the Durham batter, who is yet to establish himself as a regular at Test level.
The latest injury therefore creates an unwanted concern for England’s selectors as preparations intensify for the Pakistan series.
Durham Has Been Gay’s Main Focus
Gay has featured in five of Durham’s matches during this year’s One-Day Cup campaign.
His involvement in the competition has provided valuable competitive cricket during a period when he does not have a contract in The Hundred.
His latest appearance, however, ended prematurely after the shoulder issue emerged.
For now, Durham will await the results of his assessment before determining how long he may be sidelined.
England Await Further Updates
With the first Test against Pakistan fast approaching, England will be hoping Gay’s injury is relatively minor and does not prevent him from joining the squad.
A clearer picture is expected after his weekend assessment, which should give England and Durham a better indication of the severity of the shoulder problem and whether the opener can return to action in time for the Test series.
