Mark Wood's Availability for Third Ashes Test in Doubt Due to Knee Injury

Concerns Over Mark Wood's Fitness for Upcoming Ashes Test

Brisbane [Australia], December 4: England's right-arm fast bowler Mark Wood has raised concerns regarding his participation in the third Ashes Test scheduled to begin on December 17 in Adelaide. Earlier this year, Wood underwent surgery on his left knee, and he made his return to international cricket during the first Ashes Test against Australia in Perth last month, marking his first Test appearance in 15 months.

In the opening match of the Ashes series, Wood bowled 11 overs without taking a wicket, contributing to England's defeat by eight wickets, which put Australia ahead 1-0 in the five-match series.

The 35-year-old pacer was unable to play in the second Test in Brisbane due to ongoing pain in his left knee.

During an interview with Channel 7 at the tea break on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test in Brisbane, Wood expressed uncertainty about his fitness, suggesting he might not be ready until the fourth Test in Melbourne on December 26. He mentioned that he has been receiving injections in his knee since the first Test concluded in Perth.

“There’s a chance I could be back, but realistically, it’s more likely for Melbourne and then Sydney after that. I need to get out of this brace first to start moving around. Throughout my career, I’ve aimed to show resilience and keep pushing to bowl faster, but I’m getting older now. I’m not sure if my body is coping as well as it used to, but I’ll keep trying. I take pride in being a good team player and hope to return to form soon,” Wood stated to Channel 7, as reported by a sports media outlet.

“Right now, I’m just focusing on getting through each day. My goal is to return later in the series, but I can’t do much at this moment. I’ve had a few injections, and I’m resting, but soon I’ll start running again and then get back to bowling. It’s more of a mental challenge than a physical one. Rebuilding my strength and coming back is the toughest part,” the England pacer added.

Currently, England is trailing 1-0 in the five-match Ashes Test series.