Atapattu, 35, who was picked in the 16-man squad subject to a fitness test, was ruled out by Sri Lanka's medical staff for the three-Test series, chairman of cricket selectors Lalith Kaluperuma told AFP.

"When he sat out of the Pakistan series we were expecting that he would recover in time and be available for the tougher challenge in England, but he has failed to recover," said Kaluperuma.

"Obviously it's a severe blow for us. He was our best batsman in England four years ago in the Test series and with him out we will find it extremely difficult to fill that slot."

Jehan Mubarak will replace Atapattu, but Sri Lanka will have an inexperienced pair at the top of the order.

Mahela Jayawardene will lead the side in Atapattu's absence and wicket-keeper Kumar Sangakkara will be elevated as vice-captain.

Team physiotherapist Tommy Simsek said Atapattu might have to undergo surgery if he wanted to prolong his career.

"Marvan's problem was that the disc bone on his back was touching a nerve and we were hoping that it would heal naturally with rest, but a scan a few days back revealed that there's no improvement," Simsek said.

"The only option available is that he has got to have surgery now."

Sri Lanka begins the tour with a three-day game against British Universities at Cambridge from April 24 and the first Test starts at Lord's on May 11.