Mark Wood Confident on Ashes Fitness Ahead of Series Opener Against Australia

England fast bowler Mark Wood remains “quietly confident” about his fitness for the upcoming Ashes opener against Australia next month, following an extended absence due to a knee injury sustained in February.

The 35-year-old underwent surgery in March, which effectively ruled him out for the summer season. Despite this setback, Wood has been named in England’s 16-man Ashes squad announced last month.

Wood was a standout performer for England during the 2021-22 Ashes series, taking 17 wickets. England’s last Ashes series win came in 2015, with their most recent victory in Australia occurring in 2011.

Sharing his thoughts on the Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast, Wood described his summer as frustrating, “I didn’t get to play any cricket, and my knee, at times when you think that you’re just about ready to play, it was not just quite there. I got knocked back a couple of times, but in the tent, it’s been going well. I’ve had the speed gun out, and the pace is getting up there. Hopefully, I’m in form, bowling well in the practice games and in the nets, and can put my hand up for that game (Ashes opener).”

While he refrains from making definitive statements about his readiness, Wood expressed optimism, stating, “I never want to give an answer where I say, ‘Yes, I’m pumped, I’m ready’. But I’m in a confident place at the minute and feeling a lot more positive, so I’m quietly confident.”

The five-match Ashes series is set to kick off in Perth on November 21.

Published on October 17, 2025.