Mark Wood Poised for Comeback in Fourth Test Against India
Mark Wood's Recovery Progress
England's pace attack, which has faced numerous injury challenges, may soon receive a significant boost with the anticipated return of Mark Wood for the fourth Test against India, commencing on July 23 in Manchester. The right-arm fast bowler underwent knee surgery following the Champions Trophy 2025, where he participated in only two matches before being sidelined.
Encouraging news about Wood's recovery has emerged, with England selector Luke Wright sharing updates on his progress. "Woody has started bowling again," he informed a sports channel, "though it's currently light bowling from a few steps. This is a positive sign. He is making steady progress and achieving recovery milestones daily. If everything continues to go well, he might be ready for either the fourth or fifth Test."
Importance of Wood's Return
This development is certainly a relief for the English team, especially as they look to strengthen their pace options for the remainder of the series. Wood's speed and experience would add crucial strength to England's bowling lineup.
Luke Wright's Insights
"The plan is for him to participate in a few second team matches, building up with Sussex. The goal is for him to play against Durham during the first Test. If everything goes as planned, he should be available for the second Test,"
Updates on Jofra Archer
Wright also provided insights regarding Jofra Archer, another key fast bowler who is on the mend from an injury sustained during IPL 2025. He mentioned,
."Jofra is progressing well too. He is participating in some second-team matches as part of his recovery plan,"
With both Wood and Archer showing signs of improvement, fans of the English cricket team can remain hopeful that their pace attack will be fully fit in time for the crucial concluding matches of the series.
England Squad for the Series Against India
The squad includes Ben Stokes (Captain), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, and Chris Woakes.