Mark Wood smashed vital blows towards the end of the chase (Twitter)
A nail-biting display of cricket at the Headingley in Leeds led England to their first victory in the Ashes 2023, overcoming Australia by a narrow margin of three wickets.
Mark Wood put in a stunning all-round performance
After coming close to wining in the first two matches at Edgbaston and Lord's, the English team suffered defeats due to their failure to manage high-pressure situations effectively.
Ahead of the game, English skipper Ben Stokes brought in Mark Wood, replacing the experienced James Anderson in what was a bold move. Wood's inclusion proved to be the turning point in the contest.
His all-around show, including taking 5 wickets for 34 runs and scoring a rapid-fire 24 in the first innings, and securing 2 wickets for 66 runs along with an 8-ball 16 run burst in the chase of 251, ensured a critical win for England. Fittingly, Wood was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his outstanding performance.
Speaking in the post-match presentation, Wood expressed his delight at being acknowledged as the Man of the Match. He also opened up on the challenge of facing some of the world's top bowlers. With a touch of humour, the lanky speedster mentioned batting at an unexpectedly high position of number 9 in the lineup.
“Delighted to be here to stand as the Man of the Match. The lads will tell you there are sweaty palms. Was tough against some of the best bowlers in the world, it's the first time I've got England over the line with the bat so I'm delighted. If I bat any higher, will get a nosebleed, so definitely not higher than 9,” said Wood.
Despite this, Wood felt confident in his rhythm and performance. He shared that he gave his utmost effort, encouraged by Ben Stokes to bowl at his fastest pace. While he acknowledged the need to continue working on certain aspects of his game for the next match, Wood was content with his first innings score. In the end, he expressed gratitude for the amazing support received wherever they play.
“I felt in good rhythm. Tried to run in as hard as I can. Stokesy told me to bowl as fast as I could. Things still to work on going into the next game. I was pleased with my 24 off 8. Would be tough going into the next game. The support everywhere we go is amazing, but it's always better in the north, isn't it? Will see I how pull up but will do everything I can to be ready,” added the 33-year-old.
With the series poised at 2-1, there’s a nine-day hiatus. The fourth Ashes Test is scheduled to start on July 19 at Old Trafford, Manchester.
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