Following reports from multiple sources claiming that England’s fast bowler, Mark Wood, is a doubtful starter for the pink-ball Test at the Gabba due to a recurring injury, teammate Joe Root provided an update on his condition.
Root clarified that while he is not aware of the specific details of Wood’s injury, the express pacer is doing everything possible to ensure his availability for the second Ashes Test.
“I don’t know the full ins and outs with Woody, but you know, with him, he’ll do everything he can to be as ready as soon as possible,” Root told England Cricket. “He is very professional in that regard; he is desperate to do well for England. He will put everything out on the field, leave no stone unturned, and he wants to bowl as fast as he can, as often as possible.”
Wood’s status came into question after he skipped England’s first training session in Brisbane on Saturday, making him the only one of the 13 squad members in Queensland not to attend. Josh Tongue is now the frontrunner to replace Wood in the XI for the second Test.
When asked about a timeline for England’s express pacer’s return, Root added, “That is the case, whether it is days or weeks, we will see. But clearly, if he does miss out, then that provides a brilliant opportunity for someone else. What a great stage to perform on.”
The opening Test at Perth was Wood’s first competitive appearance in close to nine months after returning from knee surgery in March that addressed medial ligament damage. It was also his first Test cap since August 2024, against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford.
This is not the first time Wood’s fitness has been in doubt this series. Ahead of the first Test, he reported tightness in his left hamstring after a warm-up match. He ultimately proved his fitness and bowled with good pace on Day 1, though England lost the match by eight wickets, largely due to a stunning century from Australia’s Travis Head. At that time, Wood had already admitted he would “definitely not play all five Tests.”
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