Just before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, England faced a major loss because Phil Salt their top opener could not play in the final T20I match against Sri Lanka which he had to miss because of an injury. The match which begun on February 3 is already a dead-rubber match because the series results had already been determined. The injury comes at a worrying time for England, with the T20 World Cup set to begin in just four days. Salt has been a key player at the top of the order and his absence raised concerns about England’s batting plans ahead of the global event. Harry Brook Confirms Phil Salt’s Injury at Toss England captain Harry Brook won the toss and chose to bat first. While speaking at the toss, Brook confirmed that Phil Salt missed the game after suffering a back spasm. England also made another change, resting Jofra Archer for the match. During the toss, Brook said: “We will bat first. Used pitch; this is our third game on it. Hopefully, we will get the best out of it. Phil Salt had a back spasm. Ben Duckett comes in. Jofra Archer is having a rest. Luke Wood comes in." Ben Duckett replaced Salt at the top of the order, while Luke Wood came in for Archer. England decided to rest Archer as a safety measure because the World Cup approached. Also Read | Watch: Tom Rogers pulled a one handed "screamer" dismissing Labuschagne in Dean Jones Cup Ben Duckett Fails to Grab Opportunity With Phil Salt unavailable, Ben Duckett was given a golden chance to prove himself in the shortest format before the World Cup. The left-handed batter could not achieve success, as he was out after facing only one delivery. Duckett faced Dushmantha Chameera who bowled him out lbw during his first delivery thus giving England an early setback. England lost two quick wickets inside four overs which put them on the back foot. At one stage, England were 25 for 2 in four overs, with Jos Buttler and Tom Banton at the crease. Jacob Bethell could not turn his early performance into a successful run scoring after he made three runs and got dismissed. Injury Concern Ahead of World Cup Phil Salt’s injury is now a concern for England’s team management. England officials want the opener to recover from his back spasm which currently remains unconfirmed although its severity remains unknown Salt has been one of England’s most aggressive batters in T20 cricket, and his fitness will be closely watched in the coming days. England will provide an update about his condition before they start their first official match of the tournament.