Key Highlights
- Mark Wood is to have a precautionary scan on his hamstring after experiencing soreness during the first day of England’s Ashes warm-up match.
- The 35-year-old fast bowler has been out of action for nine months following knee surgery and made his return in the warm-up match against the Lions.
- England is scheduled to face Australia in the first Test starting on November 21, 2025, in Perth.
- The England fast bowler is expected to resume bowling on Saturday after undergoing the precautionary scan.
Mark Wood’s Return and Soreness
England fast bowler Mark Wood faces a setback as he prepares for the upcoming Ashes series against Australia. The veteran player, who has been out of action since knee surgery nine months ago, made his return in the first day of England’s warm-up match against the Lions at Lilac Hill, Perth. However, during the game, Wood experienced discomfort and had to leave the field midway through the afternoon session after bowling eight overs.
England Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Wood will undergo a precautionary scan on Friday to ensure there are no further issues with his hamstring. The decision comes at a crucial time for England as they gear up for the Ashes series, which is set to start in Perth on November 21, 2025.
Precautionary Measures and Future Outlook
According to ECB, Wood is expected to resume bowling in two days. This indicates that despite the discomfort during his return match, there are no immediate concerns for Wood’s participation in the upcoming series. England’s preparation for the Ashes has been closely monitored by cricket enthusiasts and fans alike, as both teams aim to assert dominance over each other.
England’s warm-up against the Lions provided valuable playing time for players returning from injury or absence.
Ben Stokes marked his own return with an impressive four-wicket haul during this match. The performance of key players like Wood will be crucial in determining England’s lineup and strategy for the upcoming series.
Ashes 2025/26 Series Schedule
The Ashes 2025/26 series is set to begin on November 21, with the first Test taking place at Optus Stadium in Perth. The five-match series will continue across various venues, including Brisbane’s The Gabba, Adelaide Oval, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Sydney Cricket Ground. The full schedule for the series is as follows:
- First Test: Friday November 21 – Tuesday November 25 (2.30am) – Optus Stadium, Perth
- Second Test (day/night): Thursday December 4 – Monday December 8 (4.30am) – The Gabba, Brisbane
- Third Test: Wednesday December 17 – Sunday December 21 (12am) – Adelaide Oval
- Fourth Test: Thursday December 25 – Monday December 29 (11.30pm) – Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Fifth Test: Sunday January 4 – Thursday January 8 (11.30pm) – Sydney Cricket Ground
The series promises to be a highly competitive and eagerly awaited event, with both teams looking forward to reclaiming the Ashes urn. As England prepares for this crucial series, the well-being of key players such as Mark Wood will play a significant role in determining their success.
