Seamer Atkinson Exacerbates England's Fitness Problems.
'Major setback' for the touring side as Atkinson is forced off due to a hamstring issue.
The English seamer increased the injury concerns plaguing England when he left the ground early on day two of the fourth Ashes Test in the Ashes series.
Atkinson pulled up with his left hamstring post-delivery in his spell at the MCG.
The England team stated Atkinson felt some "soreness" and was to take time away from the action for further assessment "in the coming hours".
The series decider of the series beginning on 4 January gets underway at the end of the week.
The English side has been without strike bowlers one seamer due to knee trouble and another paceman with an abdominal strain during this series.
A replacement bowler was added to the party to provide backup.
His form was underwhelming during the first two matches, claiming a mere three wickets.
He was omitted for the Adelaide match, then recalled for the Boxing Day match to fill the void.
Atkinson improved at the MCG, taking two wickets in Australia's first innings, then making 28 as a batsman being one of only three teammates to reach double figures.
Following a brief spell late on the first day, he returned for the second day's play and had nightwatchman Scott Boland caught behind.
Yet, towards the conclusion of that over, he delivered a variation to Travis Head and immediately felt at his leg.
Gus Atkinson was brought back for the fourth Ashes Test after being left out the previous Test.
