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England escape injury scare as Mark Wood cleared just in time for Ashes 2025 opener

Akshita Patel

England shares update on Mark Wood's injury [Source: @codesportsau/X.com]England shares update on Mark Wood's injury [Source: @codesportsau/X.com]

England can finally breathe easy. Fast bowler Mark Wood, one of their most important weapons for the upcoming Ashes, has been cleared of any hamstring injury, ending 24 hours of nervousness and speculation. 

The scare came on Thursday, November 13, when the 35-year-old walked off the field during the warm-up match against the England Lions, sparking fears that he might miss the first Test against Australia in Perth next week.

Mark Wood declared fit for Ashes 2025

Wood had bowled eight overs on his return to competitive cricket but felt hamstring stiffness while running, which led to immediate precautionary scans on Friday. 

With the Ashes 2025 opener just days away, the England camp feared the worst. However, the ECB delivered the best possible news.

The scans showed no injury, and Mark Wood has been declared fit to continue his preparation.

“Following precautionary scans on Friday, England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of any concerns regarding his left hamstring,” the ECB confirmed in a statement. 

While Wood is unlikely to take part in Day 3 of the warm-up match at Lilac Hill, the team has assured that he will train normally in the lead-up to the Perth Test. 

England breathe a sigh of relief

This update is a huge sigh of relief for England. Mark Wood is seen as a key factor in their Ashes plans for his raw pace, especially on the bouncy Perth surface. 

If he stays fully fit, England could field a fearsome pace attack that includes Jofra Archer, one of Brydon Carse or Josh Tongue, and Gus Atkinson, along with skipper Ben Stokes, who has started bowling again. 

The warm-up match has also given England some positive signs beyond Wood's fitness. Ben Stokes grabbed six wickets in the first innings, proving that his return to bowling rhythm is timely and crucial. 

Meanwhile, Ollie Pope smashed a commanding century at No. 3, easing any doubts about his role in the Test XI. His performance nearly seals his spot in the side for the Perth clash.