London: Right-arm pacer Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2025 Ashes series against England due to a persistent left knee injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Tuesday.
Wood, who underwent surgery on his left knee after England’s poor campaign in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy earlier this year, made his long-awaited return to competitive cricket in the opening match of the Ashes series in Perth last month.
The 35-year-old bowled 11 overs in the first Test as England lost by eight wickets. Wood was referred to a specialist after complaining of pain in his left knee.
As a result, Wood missed the second Ashes Test, which saw England lose by another 8 wickets and lose the series 0–2.
“England and Durham seamer Mark Wood has been ruled out of the remainder of Australia’s Ashes tour following a recurrence of the left knee injury he sustained during the first Test in Perth earlier this month,” the ECB said in a statement.
“Wood will return home this weekend and will work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery,” it added.
Wood will, as a result, be replaced by Surrey fast bowler Matthew Fisher, who played one Test for England against the West Indies in 2022.
The 28-year-old is already in Australia as he represented the England Lions on tour and will link up with the senior men’s team this week.
“Surrey seamer Matthew Fisher has been included in the senior squad and will join the squad this week after being in Australia with the Lions,” the ECB announced.
The third Ashes Test match between Australia and England will be held in Adelaide from December 17 to 21.
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