England fast bowler Mark Wood is expected to miss the second Ashes Test in Brisbane because of fresh concerns over his left knee. The 35-year-old had only just returned after nine months out, featuring in the Perth Test last week — his first since August 2024.
Fresh Knee Trouble for Wood
Wood bowled only 11 overs in the two-day defeat in Perth. He then skipped England’s first training session in Brisbane on Saturday, the only squad member missing at Allan Border Field. His absence comes after knee surgery and a long run of injuries that had already sidelined him for 15 months before this Ashes.
Tongue in Line to Replace Him
Josh Tongue is the leading option to step in. He is currently playing for England Lions in Canberra, alongside Matthew Potts and Jacob Bethell. England face a day-night Test at the Gabba from Thursday — a venue where they have not won since 1986.
England’s Pace Plan Takes a Hit
Wood’s return had allowed England to field a five-prong pace attack in Perth, producing their fastest collective day of Test bowling. But speeds dropped sharply on day two, and Australia wrapped up an eight-wicket win. Wood also suffered hamstring tightness in the warm-up match, though scans cleared him at the time.
Australia Strong in Day-Night Tests
England have won only two of seven day-night Tests, including three losses in Australia. By contrast, Australia have taken 13 wins in 14, driven by Mitchell Starc — the world’s top pink-ball bowler. Starc’s pace above 87mph makes the ball harder to pick up under lights, an area where Wood would have been vital. Wood took nine wickets in his last pink-ball Ashes Test in Hobart in 2022.
Broad Explains Pink-Ball Challenge
Stuart Broad said the pink ball can be tough to sight at high speed. The black seam blends in, and reflections under lights make it feel like “a big planet coming at you.” Batters rely on movement off the surface rather than early visual cues — a significant factor in night sessions.
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