SYDNEY – England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out of the Ashes series and will return home due to a recurring knee injury. The 35-year-old made his return in the first Test in Perth, after a lengthy recovery from surgery. However, his left knee flared up again, forcing him to miss the second Test in Brisbane.
Wood, who had previously undergone extensive surgery and rehab, expressed his disappointment on social media. Despite intense treatment and injections, his knee injury proved too severe to continue. Wood stated that he was “gutted” after working hard to return to Test cricket, but the setback has ended his Ashes tour early.
Matthew Fisher, 28, will replace Wood in the squad. Fisher made his Test debut in the West Indies in 2022 and has been part of England’s second-string Lions squad in Australia. Wood’s absence is a significant blow to England, as they trail 2-0 in the five-match series.
Wood’s career, which has been plagued by injuries, could be nearing its end. The fast bowler has been a crucial part of England’s pace attack, but his knee injury may end his Test career. He remains determined to recover and make a comeback, despite the ongoing challenges.
Meanwhile, Australia’s fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the entire Ashes series due to injuries. Hazlewood has struggled to recover from hamstring and Achilles issues. Australian coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Hazlewood would focus on getting fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup. However, Australia captain Pat Cummins is set to return in the third Test, following a long recovery from a back injury.
