England's hopes of unleashing their premier speed weapon later in the Ashes series have received a boost, with paceman Mark Wood targeting a return for the iconic Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Road to Recovery After Perth Setback
The 35-year-old quick, who underwent knee surgery in March, managed only 11 overs during the first Test at Perth's Optus Stadium before fresh soreness emerged. This issue ruled him out of the ongoing second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Wood admitted the latest setback was "pretty frustrating," especially given his limited workload. "I only bowled 11 overs in the game, which was the worry for me," Wood told Channel Seven. "I fell over a couple of times, and I was starting to feel it, and it just was wearing me down as it went on."
Melbourne Return the Realistic Goal
Despite still wearing a substantial brace on his left knee, the Durham fast bowler is optimistic about playing a part in the backend of the series. He suggested the third Test in Adelaide was a possibility, but the fourth Test at the MCG starting on December 26 is a more likely target.
"It's a chance there (for Adelaide), but I think more realistically, it'll be Melbourne and after that," Wood said. "I need to get out of this (brace) first and get moving around. I can't do that much at the minute, I had got a couple of injections, rest it up, and slowly but surely, running starts soon, then back into bowling."
Mental Battle and Fast Bowler's Plight
Wood highlighted the psychological challenge of repeated comebacks, noting it's often tougher than the physical rehabilitation. "It's more mentally (challenging) than physically — you've got to try and build it up and come back again, that's the more difficult thing," he explained.
He also sought counsel from former Australian fast bowling greats, speaking off-air with Ricky Ponting and drawing inspiration from Brett Lee's own history of overcoming similar injuries. "It's part and parcel of being a fast bowler," Wood added. "I'm hoping I can come back later in the series with a bit of fire."
Reflecting on his advancing age, Wood conceded his body might not be coping as well but vowed to maintain his trademark resilience. "I've tried to show resilience and keep coming back and keep trying to push it where I can bowl faster and faster," he said. "I'm getting older now, I don't know if my body's not coping with it as well, but I'll keep trying."
England's Bowling Shake-up in His Absence
Wood's injury has forced a strategic shift for the English selectors. After deploying a five-pronged pace attack in Perth, they have brought in spin-bowling all-rounder Will Jacks for the Gabba Test, altering the balance of their side in the absence of their quickest bowler.
The tourists and their fans will now eagerly monitor Wood's progress over the coming weeks, hoping his recovery stays on track for a potential fiery comeback on cricket's biggest stage during the festive season.
