 "Mark Wood in action during Champions Trophy. Image: Reuters")
England’s preparations for the highly anticipated home Test series against India have suffered a setback, with fast bowler Mark Wood ruled out for four months following surgery on his left knee. The 35-year-old underwent an operation in London on Wednesday after scans revealed medial ligament damage.
Mark Wood ruled out for four months
Wood suffered the injury during England’s Champions Trophy group-stage defeat to Afghanistan in Lahore last month. He was forced to leave the field midway through his fourth over due to a knee injury. Although Wood returned briefly, he could only complete four of his remaining six overs before exiting for good. His left knee had been heavily strapped throughout the tournament.
“I’m gutted to be out for so long after representing England across all formats since the start of last year. But I’ve got every confidence that I’ll be back firing on all cylinders now that I’ve been able to sort my knee out. I want to thank the surgeon, the doctors, staff, my England teammates and coaches for their support - and, of course, our fans. I can’t wait to get back and contribute to what is going to be a huge 2025 for us as a team,” Wood said in a statement on ECB’s website.
The recovery timeline means Wood will miss out on the five-match Test series against India, which kicks off at Headingley on 20 June. However, the ECB has stated that he could return for the final Test at The Oval, starting 31 July.
“Wood has been managing an ongoing issue with his knee for over a year but experienced increased stiffness and discomfort during England’s ICC Champions Trophy group-stage match against Afghanistan in Lahore earlier this month, forcing him to leave the field after completing his spell. He will now work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery. As a result, Wood will miss the start of the English summer but is targeting a return to full fitness by the end of July 2025,” the ECB statement read.
Wood’s absence will be a significant blow to England’s pace attack, particularly against a strong Indian batting lineup. With his express pace, he has been a vital weapon in England’s bowling arsenal. The selectors will now have to explore alternative options, with young fast bowlers like Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue potentially in line for a call-up.