Matthew Potts is poised to play his first Ashes Test in Sydney after England confirmed that Gus Atkinson has been ruled out of the series finale with a hamstring injury.
Atkinson limped off during England's four-wicket victory in Melbourne, and scans have ended his tour. With Jofra Archer and Mark Wood already sidelined, Potts is the last unused seamer from the original squad of 16.
Brydon Carse and Josh Tongue may also be available after the seven-day break, but England are expected to keep Will Jacks as a spin-bowling all-rounder at No 8. Jacks did not bowl a single over in Melbourne, but his batting depth is valued.
There is pressure on the Sydney Cricket Ground to provide a pitch that lasts five days after two short Tests in Perth and Melbourne. Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg said: 'I think people in Sydney will be knowing full well the spotlight will be on them... I'm hopeful and confident Sydney will give us a good wicket.'
If selected, Potts will earn his 11th Test cap and first in 12 months. The 27-year-old has 36 wickets at an average of 29 and made the squad after Chris Woakes retired due to a shoulder injury.
