Is Mark Wood Free from Hamstring Injury Concerns Before the Ashes Opener?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mark Wood has been cleared of any hamstring injury concerns.
- He will not participate in the final day of the warm-up match.
- The ECB confirmed Wood's fitness status.
- Wood's recovery from a knee injury has been closely monitored.
- England's pace attack features a strong lineup with multiple options.
Perth, Nov 15 (NationPress) Mark Wood has received a clean bill of health following a hamstring concern, providing a boost for England ahead of the Ashes. However, he will not participate in the final day of their sole warm-up match at Lilac Hill in Perth against the England Lions.
Wood experienced tightness in his left hamstring on Friday after completing two four-over spells that kicked off the three-day match. He exited the field partway through the second session after his second spell and subsequently underwent precautionary scans.
According to a statement from the ECB, "Following precautionary scans on Friday, England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of any issues concerning his left hamstring."
He will continue his training regimen as planned leading up to the first Test in Perth, the statement added.
England has been cautious with Wood as he recovers from a knee injury sustained during February’s Champions Trophy. Although he intended to return for the final Test against India this summer, a training setback meant he missed the entire home season.
On the opening day at Lilac Hill—a tranquil venue in the suburbs of Perth—Wood showcased several sharp spells despite the generally flat pitch.
Brydon Carse has now joined the match after missing day one due to illness, while England’s pace options also include Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Matt Potts, Josh Tongue, and Ben Stokes.
England Ashes squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood.