Karachi: England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out for the rest of the year due to a bone stress injury in his right elbow, missing the upcoming tours of Pakistan and New Zealand. This setback comes after medical scans confirmed the severity of the injury, which had initially presented as a routine check-up on a previously troublesome elbow.
According to International Cricket Council, Wood expressed surprise over the diagnosis, having believed the discomfort to be typical fast bowler niggles that he could manage. His recent performance included participation in the West Indies Test series in July and the first Test against Sri Lanka last month, where he claimed two wickets but was subsequently rested due to increasing stiffness and discomfort.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) medical team is closely working with Wood to manage and rehabilitate the injury, ensuring a careful approach to his recovery. Wood’s absence will be felt during England’s critical tours, where replacements Olly Stone and debutant Josh Hull filled in during the Sri Lanka series.
Wood remains optimistic about returning to international cricket in early 2025, aiming to be fit for the white-ball tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy in February. Despite the disappointment, Wood is committed to the recovery process, stating his dedication to representing England and his anticipation of returning to the field.