England fast bowler Mark Wood has admitted he is uncertain about being fit for the third Ashes Test as he continues to recover from a knee problem. The 35-year-old returned in the opening Test at Perth after nine months out following knee surgery, but he was ruled out of the second Test in Brisbane due to renewed discomfort in his left knee.
Recovery Timeline Still Unclear
Wood said the one-week gap between the end of the Brisbane Test and the start of the Adelaide match may not be enough. Speaking to Channel 7, he suggested that Melbourne or Sydney might be more realistic targets. He added that he must first ditch the knee brace before increasing his training load.
Long Injury Layoff Continues
The express pacer has faced repeated setbacks—elbow issues, knee surgery and, most recently, hamstring tightness during a warm-up game. Although cleared to play in Perth, he went wicketless with figures of 0-44.
England’s Pace Plan Affected
His availability had allowed England to pursue their high-pace strategy, fielding a five-man fast-bowling attack in Perth and hitting record collective speeds. But those speeds dipped on day two, contributing to Australia’s eight-wicket win and leaving England needing their quickest bowler back as soon as possible.
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