As an example, Mark Wood’s injury has completely altered England’s Ashes campaign. His injury has ruled the pace bowler out of the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old cricketer was England’s most dangerous bowler heading into his Ashes debut on Australian soil. Sadly, after feeling some soreness in his knee during the first Test in Perth, he was only able to bowl 11 overs before having to withdraw. This miserable turn of events has alarmed the squad’s tempo attack as they prepare to enter important ODIs.
Wood’s return to form was key to an England renaissance. He had positioned himself as the top wicket-taker for the series, having claimed 17 wickets at a remarkable average of 26.64. His loss leaves an enormous void in the USA bowling lineup. England would have been hoping to draw on his pace and fire for the decisive third Test in Adelaide. Wood’s history of injury issues makes this no small thing. He had an operation on his knee back in March and was ruled out of England’s entire home summer, raising questions over his fitness even before this series began.
Following his ruptured patella, Wood discovered that his Ashes experience was over. He then flew home, meaning he missed the second Test match at the Gabba. His departure robs England of one of its most important players. This, in turn, increases the pressure on the other bowlers, particularly with the series on the line. Wood has been leading a fearsome, high-pace bowling unit for England with Ben Stokes. Arguably, Stokes’ new challenge is leading a much-reduced squad.
The selectors responded to Wood’s departure by adding Matthew Fisher to the England Test squad for the remainder of the summer. Fisher’s inclusion points to an acceptance of the pressure Wood’s departure might add to the team’s bowling stocks. As England approaches the next stage of the series, they must adapt to competing without their most experienced quick behind Stokes.
