Islamabad, March 13, 2025: England fast bowler Mark Wood has been sidelined from all forms of cricket for four months due to a knee injury.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Thursday that Wood sustained the injury during England’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match against Afghanistan in Lahore.
In that historic encounter, he left the field after experiencing discomfort. Subsequent scans revealed ligament damage in his left knee, necessitating surgery.
The Durham pacer is expected to miss the start of England’s summer and is targeting a return by late July 2025. His comeback is anticipated in the latter half of the home Test series against India.
Expressing disappointment over the setback, Wood acknowledged that representing England across formats had been a significant milestone for him.
The right-arm pacer remained optimistic about making a strong return, crediting the medical team, his teammates, and supporters for their encouragement.
The ECB will closely monitor Wood’s recovery as England prepares for a crucial 2025 season, with the home series against India set to be a key fixture.
Wood has represented England in 37 Test matches, taking 119 wickets at an average of 30.42 and an economy rate of 3.31, with a best bowling spell of 6/37.
The fast bowler has also played 70 ODIs for England, taking 80 wickets at an average of 30.42 and an economy rate of 3.31, with a best spell of 4/33.
Wood was part of the England squad in the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where England was eliminated in the group stage.
England lost to Australia in their opening game, suffered a shocking defeat against Afghanistan in a record-breaking encounter, and also lost to South Africa.
