Fast bowler Atkinson Adds to the English team's Injury Worries.
'Major setback' for England as Atkinson is forced off with a hamstring injury.
The English seamer increased the fitness woes of the England squad upon exiting the field early on day two of the Boxing Day Test versus the Australians.
Atkinson pulled up with his left leg post-delivery of the fourth over during the morning session.
The England team indicated the 27-year-old felt some "soreness" and required time on the sidelines to undergo evaluation "during the day".
The final Test of the series in Sydney starts this coming Sunday.
The English side has already lost strike bowlers one seamer with a knee problem and another paceman because of a side injury during this series.
Matthew Fisher was called up to provide backup.
The seamer had a tough time in the opening two Tests, claiming a mere three wickets.
He was omitted from the previous Test, before being recalled for the fourth Test in the playing XI.
Atkinson showed better form in Melbourne, taking two wickets with the ball, then making 28 as a batsman as one of just three England players to reach double figures.
Following a brief spell late on the first day, he came back for the second day's play and had nightwatchman Scott Boland caught behind.
Unfortunately, towards the conclusion of that over, he sent down a slower ball to the batsman and suddenly grabbed for his hamstring.
The English bowler was recalled for the fourth Ashes Test after being left out the Adelaide game.
