Wood Ruled Out for Remainder of Ashes Series

England’s Ashes campaign has suffered a significant setback following confirmation that fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025–26 series due to a left knee injury.

The 35-year-old sustained the issue during the opening Test in Perth, where he bowled 11 overs before being forced to withdraw after experiencing discomfort. Australia went on to secure an eight-wicket victory, before claiming an identical margin of success in the second Test at the Gabba to take a 2–0 lead in the series.

Wood had returned to Test cricket in Perth following knee surgery in February and an extensive seven-month rehabilitation process. However, swelling in his left knee prevented him from participating in training and subsequently ruled him out of the second Test. Medical scans later revealed that the severity of the flare-up was greater than initially anticipated, despite injections and ongoing treatment.

As a result, Wood will return to England this week to begin a recovery programme overseen by the England and Wales Cricket Board, with a long-term focus on managing his workload and fitness.

Surrey seamer Matthew Fisher has been called up to the squad as Wood’s replacement from the England Lions tour of Australia. The uncapped pacer provides additional seam options ahead of the third Test in Adelaide on December 17, with England’s management viewing him as a potential contributor for the remaining matches in Melbourne and Sydney.

Wood expressed his disappointment on social media, sharing images from Perth and acknowledging his frustration at being unable to contribute as hoped. He noted that despite arriving in Australia with optimism, his knee failed to respond sufficiently to treatment.

The latest injury adds to a history of physical setbacks that have restricted Wood’s international appearances. When fit, his express pace—frequently exceeding 90mph—and ability to generate bounce have consistently troubled opposing batters.

England must now recalibrate their bowling strategy for the final three Tests, relying more heavily on swing bowlers and spin options as captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum attempt to revive the series from a 2–0 deficit.

Australia, meanwhile, are also managing fitness concerns, with Josh Hazlewood sidelined for the series due to hamstring and Achilles issues. Nonetheless, their bowling attack has dominated the opening two Tests, establishing a commanding position. England will look to regain momentum in the day-night Test in Adelaide, where conditions are expected to present fresh challenges for both sides.