Ashes 2025-26: Mark Wood ruled out of Brisbane Test, who will be his replacement?
Ashes 2025-26: Mark Wood ruled out of Brisbane Test, who will be his replacement?: England’s 2025-26 Ashes campaign could suffer a setback ahead of the second Test. Fast bowler Mark Wood could be ruled out of the crucial match against Australia in Brisbane. The team management is working on a strategy to keep him fit for the entire series.
Why is the England Team resting Wood?
England are already trailing 1-0 in the series after losing the first Test. The omission of a key fast bowler is a cause for concern, but this decision has been made considering Mark Wood‘s fitness:
- Recent surgery: Wood returned to play his first Test after recovering from medial ligament surgery on his knee after nearly nine months. The team doesn’t want to put any extra pressure on him.
- Focus on fitness: Wood himself admitted that playing all five Tests wouldn’t be possible for him, as it puts too much pressure on his body. Wood, who will turn 36 in January, has been frequently plagued by injuries.
- Perth Test Performance: He impressed everyone with his blistering pace (up to 150 km/h) in the first Test in Perth, but with the match ending in two days, he was only able to bowl a total of 11 overs.
It’s clear that the team management wants to rest him for the Brisbane Test and ensure he’s fully prepared for the third Test in Adelaide.
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Who is Mark Wood’s potential replacement?
Mark Wood’s absence from the first training session in Brisbane has strengthened the rumors of his exclusion. Two prominent names are being discussed to replace him:
| Potential Players | Reason |
|---|---|
| Josh Tongue | He is a fast bowler whose pace and bounce make him a strong contender. Giving him a chance in Brisbane before the pink-ball match (Adelaide) could be the right strategy. |
| Matthew Potts | There is another option, but Tongue’s pace puts him ahead in this race. |
Josh Tongue is the most likely to play, who could bring new energy to England’s bowling attack.
What did Ben Stokes say? (Captain’s Comment)
England captain Ben Stokes addressed Wood’s emotional nature and how disappointed he was with the loss in the first Test.
Stokes also clarified an earlier statement in which he used the term “has-beens” to describe some former players. He called it a “wrong word” and expressed respect for the fact that every player has to become a former player one day.
Stokes and the entire team are now focused on making a strong comeback in the Brisbane Test.
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