Few sights in cricket are as satisfying as a genuine pace bowler whipping the ball into the stumps, and Mark Wood has been one of the rare fasts in recent years who could deliver that exact kind of excitement. For the moment, though, the 36-year-old is dealing with a knee problem that has interrupted his latest run with England.
Injury update: knee trouble sidelines Wood
Wood’s most recent England appearance came during the 2025-26 Ashes. After bowling close to ten overs in the first Test at Perth in November, the knee issue flared again and he was ruled out of the remainder of the series.
Wood’s recovery plan and England focus
While the setback has been frustrating, Wood says he is beginning to feel better and is aiming to return later in the summer in England. He stressed the importance of taking things gradually to avoid a premature comeback.
- Wood told the BBC that he needs to “take it slow” with his return.
- He said he realistically feels he may have “maybe one more chance” to get it right.
- He warned that rushing back would be “not good” and could potentially end his chances.
- He added that he is still trying to get back to bowling, with the hope of doing so later in the summer.
Before that Perth Test, Wood had been away from Test cricket for 15 months. The initial problem was an elbow issue, before the knee problem followed later and required surgery.
Road back, Test record, and England’s search for a similar type
Wood has 38 Test caps and believes representing England again remains the key motivation that keeps him going. He described the situation as “mega frustrating,” noting it has been more than a year since his first surgery, and explained how difficult it is to rebuild only to be forced out again.
- Wood said his focus is on “keeping your eye on the prize” and trying to get back to playing for England.
- He described the time away—over a year since the initial operation—as deeply frustrating.
- He noted the toll of having to build up for seven months just to play one match, then being sidelined again.
- He said that with his age, he does not want to miss games and wants to stay involved.
- He added that he was bowling quickly and well before the injury started, but he has not yet returned to that level.
England, meanwhile, are looking for a fast bowler with a similar profile while Wood recovers. With Wood still centrally contracted, the next international assignment for England comes next month, when New Zealand are scheduled to arrive for a three-Test series in England. In the meantime, England have been monitoring performances in the county circuit for options who can make an impact.
Sonny Baker’s county form and Wood’s comments on life after cricket
One name catching attention in the ongoing county season is Sonny Baker of Hampshire. Baker recently produced a five-wicket haul against Somerset, and the quickest delivery he has bowled this season has been clocked at 92 mph. He has also been showing improved control compared to his time with England earlier this year, when he played one ODI and one T20I a few months ago.
- Sonny Baker took a five-for against Somerset last month.
- His fastest delivery this season is 92 mph.
- He appears to have better control than during his recent England outings.
- Baker’s past England appearances include one ODI and one T20I earlier this year.
Wood’s own situation remains uncertain, but his return to bowling is a major talking point. A few weeks ago, the Durham pacer had made an ominous statement suggesting he had already begun thinking about life after cricket. For now, however, he is still chasing another opportunity to get it right and earn an England recall.
