England fast bowler Steven Finn has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan due to a stress injury in his left foot.

The 26-year-old was expected to play a part in the opener after taking four wickets in a warm-up match against a Pakistan 'A' team last week.

However, it has been confirmed by England that Finn will sit out the first Test with a foot problem, which captain Alastair Cook has described as a "bitter blow".

It is not yet known whether Finn will be available for the second Test, but England are hopeful that the Middlesex man will return to fitness in time.

England's three-Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates will begin at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium tomorrow.