Is Mark Wood Out of the Ashes Series?
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Synopsis
In a significant blow to England's Ashes campaign, fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out due to a recurring knee injury. This sad news follows his recent comeback after a lengthy absence due to surgery. The ECB has appointed Matthew Fisher as his replacement, adding another layer of intrigue to the ongoing series. What does this mean for England's chances?
Key Takeaways
- Mark Wood ruled out of Ashes due to knee injury.
- Matthew Fisher called up as replacement.
- Wood's career marked by recurring injuries.
- ECB confirms Wood's rehabilitation plans.
- Fisher has prior Test experience.
Brisbane, Dec 9 (NationPress) Mark Wood, the England fast bowler, has been forced to withdraw from the Ashes series due to a recurrence of a left-knee injury he suffered during the opening match in Perth. He will head home to commence his rehabilitation and recovery, as confirmed by the ECB on Tuesday.
Wood made his return after a nine-month hiatus following knee surgery for the first Test in Perth, where he bowled eight overs before experiencing tightness in his left hamstring. Although scans showed no damage, he was declared fit to play, finishing with match figures of 0-44 in 11 overs.
However, the 35-year-old pacer was later referred to a specialist after complaining of knee pain and has now been ruled out of the second Test in Brisbane.
The ECB stated, "England and Durham seamer Mark Wood will miss the remainder of the Ashes tour of Australia due to a recurrence of the left-knee injury sustained during the first Test in Perth earlier this month."
Wood is set to return home later this week to collaborate with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery.
In his place, Matthew Fisher has been called up to the squad. The seamer, currently in Australia with the Lions, will join the team this week.
Fisher has previously played one Test for England against the West Indies in March 2022, achieving match figures of 1-21 from 27 overs. He has claimed two wickets in three games for the Lions this winter, including one against Zak Crawley when England's second string faced the senior team in a pre-Ashes warm-up match at Lilac Hill.
This latest setback adds another chapter to Wood's career, which has been frequently interrupted by fitness issues. Prior to the Perth Test, he had not participated in red-ball cricket for England in 15 months due to an elbow injury followed by knee surgery.
Point of View
I recognize the serious implications of Mark Wood's injury on England's Ashes campaign. His absence is a significant loss, considering his experience and skill. The team's depth will be tested as they adapt to this unexpected challenge. We will continue to provide updates on this evolving story.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mark Wood ruled out of the Ashes?
Mark Wood is ruled out due to a recurrence of his left-knee injury sustained during the first Test in Perth.
Who is replacing Mark Wood?
Matthew Fisher has been named as Mark Wood's replacement for the remainder of the Ashes series.
How long was Mark Wood out before returning?
Mark Wood was out for nine months due to knee surgery before returning for the first Test in Perth.
What are Mark Wood's recent performances?
In the first Test, Mark Wood bowled eight overs with match figures of 0-44.
What does this mean for England's Ashes chances?
Mark Wood's absence poses a challenge for England, impacting their bowling strength in the ongoing Ashes series.
