England’s preparations for the upcoming Ashes series have received a significant boost with the news that fast bowler Mark Wood has been declared fit for the first Test. Wood had undergone precautionary scans after reporting discomfort in his left hamstring during a warm-up match. The results confirmed no significant damage, allowing him to resume full training.
This positive development for the tourists stands in stark contrast to the situation facing their Australian counterparts. The home side’s pace attack has been dealt a severe setback with the confirmation that Josh Hazlewood will miss the series opener due to a hamstring strain. Follow-up scans revealed a low-grade tear, a detail not initially detected.
Hazlewood’s absence compounds a growing injury crisis for Australia, who are already without their captain and premier fast bowler, Pat Cummins. With only Mitchell Starc now available from their established trio of frontline seamers, selectors have called up Michael Neser as reinforcement. Sean Abbott, another squad member, has also been sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Wood’s availability is considered crucial to England’s strategy, which is heavily reliant on high-speed bowling to challenge the Australian batting lineup. His teammate noted the bowler’s resilience in overcoming past fitness setbacks, highlighting his importance to the squad’s morale and plans.
The contrasting injury news has shifted the early narrative ahead of the first Test, handing England a psychological advantage as both camps finalise their preparations in Perth.