Ireland opener James McCollum unlikely to return against England following ankle injury

McCollum was unbeaten on 12 when he was forced to retire hurt, helped off the field by physios from both sides

Ireland opener James McCollum is "unlikely" to play any further part in the Test match against England after suffering suspected ankle ligament damage late on day two.

He was taken to hospital after falling awkwardly while batting in the second innings at Lord's. Scans later confirmed he had not suffered a fracture.

McCollum, who was unbeaten on 12 at the time, was forced to retire hurt and was helped off the field by physios from both sides.

In a statement, Cricket Ireland said: "James underwent assessment and imaging last night at a nearby orthopaedic hospital.

^{Jamie McCollum was unbeaten on 12 at the time (Michael Steele/Getty Images)}

"X-rays have revealed no fracture is present and we are awaiting on the reports from his MRI which is likely to show injury to his ligaments.

"He is currently in an orthopaedic boot and crutches and it is unlikely that he will take any further part in the match."

McCollum top-scored for the tourists in the first innings, making 36 (108), but was one of five victims for Stuart Broad, before England made hay.

The home team ended on 524 for 4 in just 82.4 overs, with Ollie Pope making 205.

Ireland resume on 97 for 3 on day three, with Harry Tector unbeaten on 33 and Lorcan Tucker on 21.

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