England’s fast bowler Mark Wood has been sidelined for the remainder of 2024 due to a bone stress injury in his right elbow. This significant blow to England’s pace attack was confirmed after medical scans revealed the extent of the injury, forcing Wood to miss the upcoming tours of Pakistan and New Zealand.
The 34-year-old pacer initially felt discomfort in his elbow during England’s Test series against the West Indies in July. Despite this, he pushed through the pain to play in the first Test against Sri Lanka in August, where he managed to take two wickets.
However, the discomfort persisted, prompting the England team management to rest him for the remainder of the series. His absence saw the inclusion of Olly Stone and the uncapped pacer Josh Hull, who stepped up in the second and third Tests, respectively.
Mark Wood has had a history of injuries throughout his career, especially related to his elbow, and this latest setback has raised concerns about his long-term fitness.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) medical team is taking a cautious approach, ensuring that Wood undergoes a thorough rehabilitation process to recover fully.
The ECB has emphasized that Wood’s rehabilitation will be closely monitored, and they are hopeful that he can return to competitive cricket in early 2025.
England’s head coach, Matthew Mott, expressed his disappointment at losing such a key player for the remainder of the year but remained optimistic about Wood’s recovery.
Mott stated that the team will feel the absence of Wood’s pace and experience, especially in challenging overseas tours. However, he praised the younger fast bowlers, including Stone and Hull, who have shown promise and will likely take on greater responsibilities in the coming months.
While Wood’s injury rules him out of the Pakistan and New Zealand series, there is hope that he will be fit to return for the white-ball tour of India in early 2025.
The ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for later that year, is also a major target for Wood as he eyes a comeback. For now, England will have to cope without their seasoned pacer as they prepare for their challenging international commitments.
