England have been dealt a potential setback after fast bowler Mark Wood felt tightness in his left hamstring during the first day of their warm-up match against the England Lions in Perth.
The 35-year-old, returning from a knee surgery earlier this year, left the field midway through the second session at Lilac Hill. England have confirmed that he will undergo a scan on Friday to assess the extent of the issue, with hopes that he might bowl again on the final day.
First match in nine months
This game marked Wood’s first competitive appearance since February and his first in whites for over a year. Despite the long layoff, he immediately generated sharp pace, touching 91mph in his opening spell on a sluggish surface.
England said his workload — two four-over spells — was pre-planned as part of his gradual return. Wood appeared in good spirits when leaving the field, even sharing a light moment with Lions batter Jordan Cox, whom he had just caught on the boundary.
Recurring injury troubles
However, any fitness issue is worrying given Wood’s long history of injuries. He hasn’t played a Test since August 2024, missing the rest of that year with an elbow problem before undergoing knee surgery after the Champions Trophy. The latest discomfort is in the same leg that required that operation.
Wood has taken 119 wickets in 37 Tests at an average of 30.42 and remains one of England’s quickest bowlers — a key part of their attack for the Ashes series starting 21 November at Optus Stadium.
Bowling plans taking shape
England’s team selection for the practice match offered hints about their first-Test plans. Wood featured in a five-man pace attack, while spinner Shoaib Bashir played for the Lions — suggesting seam will again be England’s main weapon in Australian conditions.
Optus Stadium traditionally assists fast bowlers, and spin has rarely influenced matches there. With Brydon Carse also set to return from illness, England are hoping to build rhythm among their seamers before the opener.
Positive signs for Stokes
All-rounder Ben Stokes also made a strong return, taking four wickets in his first outing since recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him since July. His return adds balance to the side, though the management will be cautious with workloads in the lead-up to the first Test.
Meanwhile, Australia face their own injury concerns — captain Pat Cummins will miss the opener with a back issue, while Josh Hazlewood has been cleared to play after a brief hamstring scare.
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