Watford-born fast bowler Steven Finn has been ruled out of England’s first Test against Pakistan with a stress injury to his left foot.

The 26-year-old had impressed for England in a final warm-up match against Pakistan A on Thursday, taking four for 16 for the tourists and recording eight maidens in his 15 over spell.

However, England captain Alastair Cook has this morning confirmed the former Parmiter’s School pupil will miss the series opener, due to get underway in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Speaking this morning, Cook said: "It's a bitter blow for him. He's had a huge 12 months. Hopefully he'll be right for second Test."

Finn last week admitted he had not expected to be selected for England's first Test since regaining the Ashes against Australia in the summer.

England have three Test matches against Pakistan followed by four One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 clashes.