Sri Lanka fielder removed from England's warm-up on a stretcher after sustaining blow to the head

Pathum Nissaka immediately fell to the ground, sparking concern from his team-mates, Jos Buttler and batting partner Joe Root

There were worrying scenes during England's tour match in Colombo on Wednesday as Sri Lanka Board XI fielder Pathum Nissaka was taken from the game on a stretcher after receiving a nasty blow to the head.

Nissaka was under a helmet at short leg when Jos Buttler pulled a delivery from Nishan Peiris hard into the back of his head.

The Sri Lankan immediately fell to the ground, sparking concern from his team-mates, Buttler and batting partner Joe Root.

^{Pathum Nissaka falls to the ground after being hit in the head by Jos Buttler}

Medical staff from both sides attended the fallen fielder, with England doctor Moiz Moghal among the collection of specialists rushing to Nissaka's aid.

The 20-year-old remained conscious as he was loaded onto a stretcher and taken away for treatment in hospital. An early tea was taken.

The incident resulted in Buttler's dismissal, with the ball looping up off Nissaka and into the hands of Angelo Mathews.

Worried players gathered around the stricken Nissaka

England, responding to the Sri Lanka Board XI's 392 for nine on Tuesday, lost wickets at regular intervals with only Joe Root standing firm.

The Test captain made a century from 117 balls before immediately retiring, with his side 273 for five.

England are preparing for a three-match Test tour of Sri Lanka, which is due to begin in Galle on November 6.

The Sri Lankan was taken to hospital