Matt Coles was already in India with the Potential England Performance Programme

Matt Coles has been promoted into the England Lions squad midway through their tour in Sri Lanka.

The Kent seamer replaces Surrey’s Stuart Meaker, who has flown back to the UK with a back injury.

Coles comes into the frame for the final two 50-over games in Colombo. England Lions lead the five-match series 2-1 ahead of the fourth game, which is in the Sri Lankan capital on Friday.

The 21-year-old from Maidstone was called up from the Potential England Performance Programme in Chennai, India. He will also be part of the Lions squad which plays the full England side in Abu Dhabi on February 10.

Photo by ADY KERRY