England’s fast bowling attack has taken a major blow as Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2025-26 Ashes series due to persistent knee issues. The Durham pacer, 35, has been replaced in the squad by Matthew Fisher ahead of the third Test in Adelaide, scheduled to begin on December 17, 2025.
Mark Wood’s Injury Setback
Wood, one of England’s quickest bowlers, had returned to action in the first Test in Perth after an eight-month layoff caused by knee surgery. Unfortunately, he experienced swelling in the same left knee, forcing him to miss the second Test and now the remainder of the series.
Sharing his disappointment on Instagram, Wood wrote:
“Gutted to be out the remainder of the Ashes. After extensive surgery and months of work and rehab to get back into the Test arena, my knee just hasn’t held up. None of us expected this… Whatever happens I will continue to push the limits to get back again. Never give in. Come on England.”
The injury comes as a major blow for England, who are currently 2-0 down in the Ashes, and raises questions about Wood’s international future.
Career Highlights of Mark Wood
Wood has been a key figure in England’s recent cricketing successes:
- 119 wickets in 38 Tests since his debut in 2015
- Member of the 2015 Ashes-winning squad
- Part of the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup-winning team
- Member of the 2022 T20 World Cup-winning squad
Despite his high pace and match-winning abilities, Wood’s career has been plagued by injuries, including a 15-month absence from Test cricket prior to the Perth Test due to an elbow injury followed by his knee problem.
Matthew Fisher Steps In
Durham’s Matthew Fisher, 28, has been called up to replace Wood. Fisher made his Test debut on England’s 2022 tour of the West Indies and has been part of the England Lions squad in Australia. Known for his effectiveness with the Kookaburra ball, Fisher takes the nod over Josh Hull, while other options such as Sonny Baker and Tom Lawes are unavailable due to injuries.
Ashes Team Updates: Australia
Australia have also faced injury concerns. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the series after an Achilles tendon setback, following his initial absence from the first two Tests due to a hamstring injury.
Australia coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that captain Pat Cummins is set to return from a back problem, and off-spinner Nathan Lyon is likely to play in Adelaide after being rested in Brisbane.
Potential changes in Australia’s lineup include:
- Possible exclusion of seamers Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett
- Potential recall of batter Usman Khawaja at number five, forming a new opening partnership of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald
Impact on the Ashes Series
England now face a challenging remainder of the Ashes series without one of their premier fast bowlers. Wood’s absence puts added pressure on England’s pace attack, while Australia looks to capitalize on the home advantage in Adelaide.
Fans and cricket pundits alike will be watching closely as Fisher and the rest of the England squad attempt to stage a comeback in the series.
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