Ashes 2025-26: Mark Wood boosts selection hopes with rapid 40-minute nets session

Published - 18 Nov 2025, 17:10 IST | Updated - 18 Nov 2025, 17:11 IST

Mark Wood’s chances of featuring in the first Test against Australia received a major boost on Tuesday after he bowled a 40-minute spell in the nets at Perth’s Optus Stadium, where the Ashes opener begins on Friday, November 21.

Wood, who had suffered a hamstring scare during last week’s warm-up match against the England Lions, trained with his left leg heavily strapped. He initially watched on as England returned to practice following a short break, but soon shifted into a purposeful bowling session. Both Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum closely observed the pacer’s progress from behind the stumps, keeping a keen eye on England’s key fast-bowling weapon.

"He was absolutely rapid today, I can tell you that firsthand. He's definitely one to avoid on the list. He's near enough full tilt so it's good signs for us,” said Jamie Smith as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

England are likely to field an all-pace attack for the Ashes opener in Perth, with the Optus Stadium surface once again expected to be among the fastest in world cricket. The visitors had their first look at the pitch, watered on Monday, before beginning their training session.

Wood remains central to England’s plans, not only because he is the quickest bowler in the squad, and arguably the fastest in world cricket, but also due to his prior Ashes experience. Wood was England’s standout pacer during the 2021-22 series, claiming 17 wickets at 26.64 and troubling several Australian batters who still form the core of the current lineup.

Mark Wood cleared for 1st Test after hamstring injury scare

His inclusion in the playing XI will be determined after another assessment during training session on November 19. Wood has not featured in competitive cricket since February, having spent nine months recovering from left knee surgery following a stress fracture in his right elbow sustained in September 2024.

Selecting Wood does come with risks, although England do have four other pace options available, including captain Stokes, while Jofra Archer can also offer additional express pace if required. Despite his recent fitness issues, England management seem prepared to back Wood, particularly given the value he could bring on hard, fast Australian surfaces.

The team was not overly alarmed when Wood left the field during the warm-up fixture against the England Lions after experiencing tightness in his hamstring. That discomfort was attributed partly to the soft outfield at Lilac Hills, where he bowled his first competitive overs since England’s Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan on February 26.

With Wood tied to a three-year central contract designed with the Ashes in mind, there is a growing sense within the camp that this is the moment to capitalise on their investment, if his body allows it.

"It feels like if he's good to go and the management feels he's good to go, I don't see why not,” said Josh Tongue.