Big blow to England, Mark Wood set to be ruled out of 2nd Ashes Test against Australia

In a big setback for England, their star speedster Mark Wood is reportedly set to be ruled out of the second Ashes Test against Australia due to his knee concerns. Notably, the second Test between England and Australia is set to be played in Brisbane from December 4. This news comes shortly after Wood had already been under an injury cloud before the Perth Test, having been sent for hamstring scans which ultimately came back clear. Now, however, the 35-year-old is grappling with a new issue affecting his left knee.

Mark Wood set to miss 2nd Ashes Test against Australia

This particular injury is especially concerning because Wood had only recently returned to action following a substantial nine-month layoff, during which he underwent surgery on that very same left knee. Wood missed the team's first training session in Brisbane and opted to stay at the team hotel to rest while the rest of the squad participated in an optional session at Allan Border Field. Although he still has four days of practice available to prove his fitness, England is expected to adopt a cautious approach with their crucial quick bowler.

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The first Ashes Test in Perth marked Mark Wood’s return to competitive cricket, his first appearance since the Champions Trophy 2025 back in February. However, his comeback was brief and disappointing, as the 35-year-old only managed to bowl 11 overs in the match. England ultimately suffered an embarrassing 408-run defeat, falling to Australia inside just two days.

Who will replace Mark Wood in Perth Test?

With Mark Wood now likely unavailable, the team must decide on a replacement. The most probable choice to step into the side is Josh Tongue, who is currently playing in the England Lions' pink-ball day-night match against the Australia PM’s XI. Alternatively, fast bowler Matthew Potts remains another strong option for the selection committee.

However, regardless of the fast bowling situation, the pitch conditions in Brisbane might necessitate adding a spinner to the attack. Should England decide on this strategy, the two available options are Shoaib Bashir and Will Jacks.

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Meanwhile, Australia have already their squad for the second Test in Perth.

Australia second Test squad

Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.